EN Official Journal of the European Union L 23/4

COMPREHENSIVE AND ENHANCED PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT

between the European Union

and the European Atomic Energy Community

and their Member States, of the one part,

and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part

PREAMBLE

THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM,

THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA,

THE CZECH REPUBLIC,

THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK,

THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY,

THE REPUBLIC OF ESTONIA,

IRELAND,

THE HELLENIC REPUBLIC,

THE KINGDOM OF SPAIN,

THE FRENCH REPUBLIC,

THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA,

THE ITALIAN REPUBLIC,

THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS,

THE REPUBLIC OF LATVIA,

THE REPUBLIC OF LITHUANIA,

THE GRAND DUCHY OF LUXEMBOURG,

HUNGARY,

THE REPUBLIC OF MALTA,

THE KINGDOM OF THE NETHERLANDS,

THE REPUBLIC OF AUSTRIA,

THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND,

THE PORTUGUESE REPUBLIC,

ROMANIA,

THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA,

THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC,

THE REPUBLIC OF FINLAND,

THE KINGDOM OF SWEDEN,

THE UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND,

Contracting Parties to the Treaty on European Union, the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, hereinafter referred to as ‘the Member States’,

THE EUROPEAN UNION, and

THE EUROPEAN ATOMIC ENERGY COMMUNITY, hereinafter referred to as ‘Euratom’

of the one part, and

THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

of the other part,

hereafter jointly referred to as ‘the Parties’,

TAKING ACCOUNT OF the strong links between the Parties and the values that they share, and their desire to strengthen links established in the past through the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part, which was signed in Luxembourg on 22 April 1996 and entered into force on 1 July 1999 (‘PCA’) and to promote close and intensive cooperation based on equal partnership within the framework of the European Neighbourhood Policy (‘ENP’) and the Eastern Partnership as well as within this Agreement;

RECOGNISING the contribution of the joint EU-Armenia ENP Action Plan, including its introductory provisions, and the importance of the partnership priorities in strengthening relations between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia and in helping to move forward the reform and approximation process, as referred to hereinafter, in the Republic of Armenia, thus contributing to enhanced political and economic cooperation;

COMMITTED to further strengthening respect for fundamental freedoms, human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, democratic principles, the rule of law, and good governance;

ACKNOWLEDGING that internal reforms towards strengthening democracy and the market economy, on the one hand, and sustainable conflict settlement, on the other hand, are linked. Hence, sustainable democratic reform processes in the Republic of Armenia will help build confidence and stability throughout the region;

COMMITTED to further promoting the political, socio-economic and institutional development of the Republic of Armenia through, for example, the development of civil society, institution building, public-administration and civil-service reform, the fight against corruption, and enhanced trade and economic cooperation, including good governance in the area of tax, the reduction of poverty, and wide-ranging cooperation in a broad spectrum of areas of common interest, including in the field of justice, freedom and security;

COMMITTED to the full implementation of the purposes, principles and provisions of the United Nations Charter, the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of 1950 (‘the European Convention on Human Rights’) and the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (‘OSCE Helsinki Final Act’);

RECALLING their will to promote international peace and security as well as engaging in effective multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes within agreed formats, in particular by cooperating to that end within the framework of the United Nations (‘UN’) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (‘OSCE’);

COMMITTED to international obligations to fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (‘WMDs’) and their means of delivery and to cooperate on disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as nuclear security and safety;

RECOGNISING the importance of the active participation of the Republic of Armenia in regional cooperation formats, including those supported by the European Union; recognising the importance the Republic of Armenia attaches to its participation in international organisations and cooperation formats and its existing obligations arising therefrom;

DESIROUS to further develop regular political dialogue on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest, including regional aspects, taking into account the common foreign and security policy, including the common security and defence policy, of the European Union and the relevant policies of the Republic of Armenia; recognising the importance the Republic of Armenia attaches to its participation in international organisations and cooperation formats and its existing obligations arising therefrom;

RECOGNISING the importance of the commitment of the Republic of Armenia to the peaceful and lasting settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and the need to achieve that settlement as early as possible, in the framework of the negotiations led by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs; also recognising the need to achieve that settlement on the basis of the purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter and the OSCE Helsinki Final Act, in particular those related to refraining from the threat or use of force, the territorial integrity of States, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples and reflected in all declarations issued within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship since the 16th OSCE Ministerial Council of 2008; also noting the stated commitment of the European Union to support this settlement process;

COMMITTED to preventing and fighting corruption, combating organised crime and stepping up cooperation in the fight against terrorism;

COMMITTED to stepping up their dialogue and cooperation on migration, asylum and border management with a comprehensive approach paying attention to legal migration and to cooperation aimed at tackling illegal migration and trafficking in human beings as well as efficiently implementing the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia on the Readmission of Persons residing without Authorisation which entered into force on 1 January 2014 (‘the Readmission Agreement’);

RECONFIRMING that enhanced mobility of the citizens of the Parties in a secure and well-managed environment remains a core objective and considering in due course the opening of a visa dialogue with the Republic of Armenia, provided that conditions for well-managed and secure mobility, including the effective implementation of the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia on the facilitation of the issuance of visas, which entered into force on 1 January 2014 (‘the Visa-facilitation Agreement’) and the Readmission agreement are in place;

COMMITTED to the principles of free-market economy and the readiness of the European Union to contribute to the economic reforms in the Republic of Armenia;

RECOGNISING the willingness of the Parties to deepen economic cooperation, including in trade-related areas, in compliance with the rights and obligations arising from the Parties' membership of the World Trade Organization (‘WTO’) and through the transparent and non-discriminatory application of those rights and obligations;

CONVINCED that this Agreement will create a new climate for economic relations between the Parties and, above all, for the development of trade and investment, and will stimulate competition, which are crucial to economic restructuring and modernisation;

COMMITTED to respecting the principles of sustainable development;

COMMITTED to ensuring environmental protection, including trans-boundary cooperation and the implementation of multilateral international agreements;

COMMITTED to enhancing the security and safety of the energy supply, facilitating the development of appropriate infrastructure, increasing market integration and gradual approximation with the key elements of the EU acquis referred to hereinafter, including, inter alia, by promoting energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources, taking into account commitments of the Republic of Armenia to the principles of equal treatment of energy-supplier, -transit, and -consumer countries;

COMMITTED to high levels of nuclear safety and nuclear security, as referred to hereinafter;

ACKNOWLEDGING the need for enhanced energy cooperation, and the commitment of the Parties to fully respect the provisions of the Energy Charter Treaty;

WILLING to improve the level of public health and safety and the protection of human health, respecting the principles of sustainable development, environmental needs and climate change;

COMMITTED to enhancing people-to-people contacts, including through cooperation and exchanges in the fields of science and technology, education and culture, youth and sport;

COMMITTED to promoting cross-border and inter-regional cooperation;

RECOGNISING the commitment of the Republic of Armenia to gradually approximate its legislation in the relevant sectors with that of the European Union, to implement it effectively as part of its wider reform efforts and to develop its administrative and institutional capacity to the extent necessary to enforce this Agreement, and recognising the sustained support of the European Union, in accordance with all available instruments of cooperation, including technical, financial and economic assistance in connection with that commitment, reflecting the pace of the reforms and economic needs of the Republic of Armenia;

NOTING that, in the event that the Parties decide, within the framework of this Agreement, to enter into specific agreements in the area of freedom, security and justice concluded by the European Union pursuant to Title V of Part Three of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the provisions of such future agreements would not bind the United Kingdom and/or Ireland unless the European Union, simultaneously with the United Kingdom and/or Ireland as regards their respective previous bilateral relations, notifies the Republic of Armenia that the United Kingdom and/or Ireland has/have become bound by such agreements as part of the European Union in accordance with Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the area of freedom, security and justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Likewise, any subsequent internal measures of the European Union adopted pursuant to the Title V of Part Three of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to implement this Agreement would not bind the United Kingdom and/or Ireland unless they have notified their wish to take part or accept such measures in accordance with Protocol No 21; also noting, that such future agreements or such subsequent internal measures of the European Union would fall under Protocol No 22 on the position of Denmark, annexed to the said Treaties,

HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

TITLE I

OBJECTIVES AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Article 1

Objectives

The aims of this Agreement are:

(a) to enhance the comprehensive political and economic partnership and cooperation between the Parties, based on common values and close links, including by increasing the participation of the Republic of Armenia in policies, programmes and agencies of the European Union;

(b) to strengthen the framework for political dialogue on all areas of mutual interest, promoting the development of close political relations between the Parties;

(c) to contribute to the strengthening of democracy and of political, economic and institutional stability in the Republic of Armenia;

(d) to promote, preserve and strengthen peace and stability at both regional and international level, including through joining efforts to eliminate sources of tension, enhancing border security, and promoting cross-border cooperation and good neighbourly relations;

(e) to enhance cooperation in the area of freedom, security and justice with the aim of reinforcing the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms;

(f) to enhance mobility and people-to-people contacts;

(g) to support the efforts of the Republic of Armenia to develop its economic potential via international cooperation, including through the approximation of its legislation to the EU acquis referred to hereinafter;

(h) to establish enhanced trade cooperation allowing for sustained regulatory cooperation in relevant areas, in compliance with the rights and obligations arising from WTO membership; and

(i) to establish conditions for increasingly close cooperation in other areas of mutual interest.

Article 2

General Principles

1. Respect for the democratic principles, the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in particular in the UN Charter, the OSCE Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris for a New Europe of 1990, as well as other relevant human rights instruments such as the UN Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights, shall form the basis of the domestic and external policies of the Parties and constitute an essential element of this Agreement.

2. The Parties reiterate their commitment to the principles of a free-market economy, sustainable development, regional cooperation and effective multilateralism.

3. The Parties reaffirm their respect for the principles of good governance, as well as for their international obligations, in particular under the UN, the Council of Europe and the OSCE.

4. The Parties commit themselves to the fight against corruption, the fight against the different forms of transnational organised crime and terrorism, the promotion of sustainable development, effective multilateralism and the fight against the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems, including through the EU Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear Risk Mitigation Centre of Excellence Initiative. This commitment constitutes a key factor in the development of the relations and cooperation between the Parties and contributes to regional peace and stability.

TITLE II

POLITICAL DIALOGUE AND REFORM; COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY

Article 3

Aims of political dialogue

1. Political dialogue on all areas of mutual interest, including foreign policy and security matters as well as domestic reform, shall be further developed and strengthened between the Parties. Such dialogue will increase the effectiveness of political cooperation on foreign policy and security matters, recognising the importance the Republic of Armenia attaches to its participation in international organisations and cooperation formats and its existing obligations arising therefrom.

2. The aims of political dialogue shall be:

(a) to further develop and strengthen political dialogue on all areas of mutual interest;

(b) to enhance the political partnership and increase the effectiveness of cooperation in the area of foreign and security policy;

(c) to promote international peace, stability and security based on effective multilateralism;

(d) to strengthen cooperation and dialogue between the Parties on international security and crisis management, in particular in order to address global and regional challenges and related threats;

(e) to strengthen cooperation in the fight against the proliferation of WMDs and their delivery systems;

(f) to foster result-oriented and practical cooperation between the Parties for achieving peace, security and stability on the European continent;

(g) to strengthen respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, good governance, and human rights and fundamental freedoms, including media freedom and the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and to contribute to consolidating domestic political reforms;

(h) to develop dialogue and to deepen cooperation between the Parties in the field of security and defence;

(i) to promote the peaceful resolution of conflicts;

(j) to promote the purposes and principles of the UN as enshrined in its Charter and the principles guiding relations between participating states as set out in the OSCE Helsinki Final Act; and

(k) to promote regional cooperation, develop good neighbourly relations and enhance regional security, including by taking steps towards opening borders to promote regional trade and cross-border movement.

Article 4

Domestic reform

The Parties shall cooperate in the following areas:

(a) developing, consolidating and increasing the stability and effectiveness of democratic institutions and the rule of law;

(b) ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms;

(c) making further progress on judicial and legal reform, so as to secure the independence, quality and efficiency of the judiciary, the prosecution and law enforcement;

(d) strengthening the administrative capacity and guaranteeing the impartiality and effectiveness of law-enforcement bodies;

(e) further pursuing public-administration reform and developing an accountable, efficient, transparent and professional civil service; and

(f) ensuring effectiveness in the fight against corruption, in particular with a view to enhancing international cooperation in combating corruption, and ensuring effective implementation of relevant international legal instruments, such as the UN Convention Against Corruption of 2003.

Article 5

Foreign and security policy

1. The Parties shall intensify their dialogue and cooperation in the area of foreign and security policy, including the common security and defence policy, recognising the importance that the Republic of Armenia attaches to its participation in international organisations and cooperation formats and its existing obligations arising therefrom, and shall address in particular issues of conflict prevention and crisis management, risk reduction, cybersecurity, security-sector reform, regional stability, disarmament, non-proliferation, arms control and export control. Cooperation shall be based on common values and mutual interests, and shall aim at increasing its effectiveness, making use of bilateral, international and regional fora, in particular the OSCE.

2. The Parties reaffirm their commitment to the principles and norms of international law, including those enshrined in the UN Charter and the OSCE Helsinki Final Act, and their commitment to the promotion of those principles in their bilateral and multilateral relations.

Article 6

Serious crimes of international concern and the International Criminal Court

1. The Parties reaffirm that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole must not go unpunished and that their effective prosecution must be ensured by taking measures at national and international level, including at the level of the International Criminal Court.

2. The Parties consider that the establishment and effective functioning of the International Criminal Court constitutes an important development for international peace and justice. The Parties shall aim to enhance cooperation in promoting peace and international justice by ratifying and implementing the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and its related instruments, taking into account their legal and constitutional frameworks.

3. The Parties agree to closely cooperate to prevent genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes by making use of appropriate bilateral and multilateral frameworks.

Article 7

Conflict prevention and crisis management

The Parties shall enhance practical cooperation in conflict prevention and crisis management, in particular with a view to the possible participation of the Republic of Armenia in EU-led civilian and military crisis-management operations as well as relevant exercises and training, on a case-by-case basis.

Article 8

Regional stability and peaceful resolution of conflicts

1. The Parties shall intensify their joint efforts to improve conditions for further regional cooperation by promoting open borders with cross-border movement, good neighbourly relations and democratic development, thereby contributing to stability and security, and shall work towards the peaceful settlement of conflicts.

2. The efforts referred to in paragraph 1 shall follow commonly shared principles of maintaining international peace and security as enshrined in the UN Charter, the OSCE Helsinki Final Act and other relevant multilateral documents to which the Parties have aligned themselves. The Parties underline the importance of existing agreed formats for the peaceful settlement of conflicts.

3. The Parties underline that arms control and confidence- and security-building measures remain of great importance for security, predictability and stability in Europe.

Article 9

Weapons of mass destruction, non-proliferation and disarmament

1. The Parties consider that the proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery, both to State and non-State actors, such as terrorists and other criminal groups, represents one of the most serious threats to international peace and stability. The Parties therefore agree to cooperate in and contribute to countering the proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery, in full compliance with, and national implementation of, their existing obligations under international disarmament and non-proliferation treaties and agreements as well as other relevant international obligations. The Parties agree that this provision constitutes an essential element of this Agreement.

2. The Parties agree to cooperate in and contribute to countering the proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery by:

(a) taking steps to sign, ratify or accede to, as appropriate, and fully implement all other relevant international instruments; and

(b) further developing an effective system of national export controls, including controls on the export and transit of WMD-related goods as well as WMD end-use controls on dual-use technologies.

3. The Parties agree to establish a regular political dialogue that will accompany and consolidate the elements referred to in this Article.

Article 10

Small arms and light weapons and conventional arms exports control

1. The Parties recognise that the illicit manufacture and trafficking of small arms and light weapons (‘SALWs’), including their ammunition, and excessive accumulation, poor management, inadequately secured stockpiles and the uncontrolled spread thereof continue to pose a serious threat to international peace and security.

2. The Parties agree to observe and fully implement their respective obligations to deal with the illicit trade in SALWs, including their ammunition, under existing international agreements to which they are parties and UN Security Council resolutions, as well as their commitments within the framework of other international instruments applicable in that area, such as the UN Programme of Action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in SALWs in all its aspects.

3. The Parties shall undertake to cooperate and to ensure coordination, complementarity and synergy in their efforts to deal with the illicit trade in SALWs, including their ammunition, and the destruction of excessive stockpiles, at global, regional, sub-regional and, as appropriate, national levels.

4. Furthermore, the Parties agree to continue to cooperate in the area of conventional arms control, in the light of the Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP of 8 December 2008 defining common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment and relevant national legislation of the Republic of Armenia.

5. The Parties agree to establish a regular political dialogue that will accompany and consolidate the elements referred to in this Article.

Article 11

Combating terrorism

1. The Parties reaffirm the importance of the fight against and the prevention of terrorism, and agree to work together at bilateral, regional and international level to prevent and combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

2. The Parties agree that it is essential that the fight against terrorism be conducted with full respect for the rule of law and in full conformity with international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, the principles of the UN Charter, and all relevant international counter-terrorism-related instruments.

3. The Parties stress the importance of the universal ratification and full implementation of all UN counter-terrorism-related conventions and protocols. The Parties agree to continue to promote dialogue on the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and to cooperate in the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, as well as all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and Council of Europe conventions. The Parties also agree to cooperate to promote international consensus on the prevention of and fight against terrorism.

TITLE III

JUSTICE, FREEDOM AND SECURITY

Article 12

Rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms

1. In their cooperation in the area of freedom, security and justice, the Parties shall attach particular importance to the consolidation of the rule of law, including the independence of the judiciary, access to justice, the right to a fair trial as provided for by the European Convention on Human Rights, and procedural safeguards in criminal matters and victims' rights.

2. The Parties shall cooperate fully with regard to the effective functioning of institutions in the areas of law enforcement, the fight against corruption and the administration of justice.

3. Respect for human rights, non-discrimination and fundamental freedoms shall guide all cooperation on freedom, security and justice.

Article 13

Protection of personal data

The Parties agree to cooperate in order to ensure a high level of protection of personal data in accordance with the international legal instruments and standards of the European Union, Council of Europe and other international bodies.

Article 14

Cooperation on migration, asylum and border management

1. The Parties reaffirm the importance of the joint management of migration flows between their territories and shall establish a comprehensive dialogue on all migration-related issues, including legal migration, international protection and the fight against illegal migration, smuggling and trafficking in human beings.

2. Cooperation will be based on a specific needs-assessment conducted through mutual consultation between the Parties and will be implemented in accordance with their relevant legislation. It will, in particular, focus on:

(a) addressing the root causes of migration;

(b) the development and implementation of national legislation and practices as regards international protection, with a view to satisfying the provisions of the Geneva Convention relating to the status of refugees of 1951, the Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees of 1967 and other relevant international instruments, such as the European Convention on Human Rights, and to ensuring respect for the principle of ‘non-refoulement’;

(c) the admission rules and rights and status of persons admitted, fair treatment and integration of lawfully residing non-nationals, education and training and measures against racism and xenophobia;

(d) the establishment of an effective and preventive policy against illegal migration, the smuggling of migrants and trafficking in human beings, including the issue of how to combat networks of smugglers and traffickers and how to protect the victims of such trafficking in the framework of relevant international instruments;

(e) issues such as organisation, training, best practices and other operational measures in the areas of migration management, document security, visa policy, border-management and migration-information systems;

3. Cooperation may also facilitate circular migration for the benefit of development.

Article 15

Movement of persons and readmission

1. The Parties that are bound by the following Agreements shall ensure the full implementation of:

(a) the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia on the readmission of persons residing without authorisation; and

(b) the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia on the facilitation of the issuance of visas.

2. The Parties shall continue to promote the mobility of citizens through the Visa-facilitation Agreement and consider in due course the opening of a visa-liberalisation dialogue provided that conditions for well-managed and secure mobility are in place. They shall cooperate in fighting irregular migration, including through the implementation of the Readmission Agreement, as well as promoting border-management policy as well as legal and operational frameworks.

Article 16

Fight against organised crime and corruption

1. The Parties shall cooperate in combating and preventing criminal and illegal activities, including transnational activities, organised or otherwise, such as:

(a) smuggling of migrants and trafficking in human beings;

(b) smuggling and trafficking in firearms including SALWs;

(c) smuggling and trafficking illicit drugs;

(d) smuggling and trafficking in goods;

(e) illegal economic and financial activities such as counterfeiting, fiscal fraud and public-procurement fraud;

(f) embezzlement in projects funded by international donors;

(g) active and passive corruption, in both the private and public sector;

(h) forging documents and submitting false statements; and

(i) cybercrime.

2. The Parties shall enhance bilateral, regional and international cooperation among law-enforcement bodies, including the possible development of cooperation between European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (‘Europol’) and the relevant authorities of the Republic of Armenia. The Parties are committed to implementing effectively the relevant international standards, in particular those enshrined in the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime of 2000 and the three Protocols thereto. The Parties shall cooperate in preventing and fighting corruption in line with the UN Convention Against Corruption of 2003, the recommendations of the Council of Europe Group of States against corruption (‘GRECO’) and the OECD, transparency with regard to asset declaration, the protection of whistle-blowers, and the disclosure of information on final beneficiaries of legal entities.

Article 17

Illicit drugs

1. Within their respective powers and competencies, the Parties shall cooperate to ensure a balanced and integrated approach towards preventing and combating illicit drugs as well as new psychoactive substances. Drug policies and actions shall be aimed at reinforcing structures for preventing and combating illicit drugs, reducing the supply of, trafficking in and the demand for illicit drugs and coping with the health and social consequences of drug abuse with a view to reducing harm, as well as at more effective prevention of the diversion of chemical precursors used for the illicit manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic or psychoactive substances.

2. The Parties shall agree on the necessary methods of cooperation to attain the objectives referred to in paragraph 1. Actions shall be based on commonly agreed principles set out in the relevant international conventions, and shall aim at implementing the recommendations enshrined in the Outcome Document of the UN General Assembly Special Session on the world drug problem held in April 2016.

Article 18

Money laundering and terrorism financing

1. The Parties shall cooperate in order to prevent the use of their financial and relevant non-financial systems for the laundering of the proceeds of criminal activities in general and drug offences in particular, as well as for the purpose of terrorism financing. That cooperation extends to the recovery of assets or funds derived from the proceeds of crime.

2. Cooperation in this area shall allow for exchanges of relevant information within the framework of the Parties' respective legislation and relevant international instruments as well as the adoption of appropriate standards to prevent and combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism equivalent to those adopted by relevant international bodies active in this area, such as the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering.

Article 19

Cooperation in the fight against terrorism

1. In accordance with the principles underlying the fight against terrorism as set out in Article 11, the Parties reaffirm the importance of a law-enforcement and judicial approach to the fight against terrorism, and agree to cooperate in the prevention and suppression of terrorism, in particular by:

(a) exchanging information on terrorist groups and individuals and their support networks, in accordance with international and national law, in particular as regards data protection and the protection of privacy;

(b) exchanging experience with regard to the prevention and suppression of terrorism, means and methods and their technical aspects, as well as training, in accordance with applicable law;

(c) exchanging views on radicalisation and recruitment, and ways to counter radicalisation and promote rehabilitation;

(d) exchanging views and experience concerning cross-border movement and travel of terrorist suspects as well as terrorist threats;

(e) sharing best practices as regards the protection of human rights in the fight against terrorism, in particular in relation to criminal proceedings;

(f) ensuring the criminalisation of terrorist offences; and

(g) taking measures against the threat of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear terrorism, and undertaking necessary measures to prevent the acquisition, transfer and use for terrorist purposes of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials as well as to prevent illegal acts against high-risk chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear facilities.

2. Cooperation shall be based on relevant available assessments and conducted through mutual consultation between the Parties.

Article 20

Legal cooperation

1. The Parties agree to develop judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters as regards the negotiation, ratification and implementation of multilateral conventions on civil judicial cooperation and, in particular, the Conventions of the Hague Conference on Private International Law in the fields of international legal cooperation and litigation as well as the protection of children.

2. As regards judicial cooperation in criminal matters, the Parties shall seek to enhance cooperation on mutual legal assistance on the basis of relevant multilateral agreements. Such cooperation shall include, where appropriate, accession to, and implementation of, the relevant international instruments of the UN and the Council of Europe and closer cooperation between Eurojust and the competent authorities of the Republic of Armenia.

Article 21

Consular protection

The Republic of Armenia agrees that the diplomatic and consular authorities of any represented Member State shall provide protection to any national of a Member State which does not have a permanent representation in the Republic of Armenia effectively in a position to provide consular protection in a given case, on the same conditions as to nationals of that Member State.

TITLE IV

ECONOMIC COOPERATION

CHAPTER 1

Economic dialogue

Article 22

1. The European Union and the Republic of Armenia shall facilitate the process of economic reform by improving shared understanding of the fundamentals of each economy and the formulation and implementation of economic policies.

2. The Republic of Armenia shall take further steps to develop a well-functioning market economy and to gradually approximate its economic and financial regulations and policies to those of the European Union, as agreed by this Agreement. The European Union will support the Republic of Armenia in ensuring sound macroeconomic policies, including central-bank independence and price stability, sound public finances, and a sustainable exchange-rate regime and balance of payments.

Article 23

To that end, the Parties agree to conduct a regular economic dialogue aimed at:

(a) exchanging information on macroeconomic trends and policies, as well as on structural reforms, including strategies for economic development;

(b) exchanging expertise and best practices in areas such as public-finance, monetary and exchange-rate policy frameworks, financial-sector policy and economic statistics;

(c) exchanging information and experiences on regional economic integration, including the functioning of the European economic and monetary union;

(d) reviewing the status of bilateral cooperation in the economic, financial and statistical fields.

Article 24

Public sector internal control and auditing arrangements

The Parties shall cooperate in the areas of public internal control and external audit with the following objectives:

(a) further developing and implementing the public internal control system in accordance with the principle of decentralised managerial accountability, including an independent internal audit function for the entire public sector in the Republic of Armenia, by means of approximation with generally accepted international standards, frameworks and guidance and European Union good practice, on the basis of the public internal financial control reform programme approved by the Government of the Republic of Armenia;

(b) developing an adequate financial inspection system in the Republic of Armenia to complement, but not duplicate, the internal audit function;

(c) supporting the central harmonisation unit for public internal financial control in the Republic of Armenia and strengthening its ability to steer the reform process;

(d) further strengthening the Audit Chamber as the supreme audit institution of the Republic of Armenia, in particular in terms of its financial, organisational and operational independence in accordance with internationally accepted external audit (‘INTOSAI’) standards; and

(e) providing for the exchange of information, experiences and good practice.

CHAPTER 2

Taxation

Article 25

The Parties shall cooperate to enhance good governance in the area of tax, with a view to the further improvement of economic relations, trade, investment and fair cooperation.

Article 26

With reference to Article 25, the Parties recognise and commit themselves to implement the principles of good governance in the area of tax, i.e. the principles of transparency, exchange of information and fair tax competition, as subscribed to by Member States at European Union level. To that effect, without prejudice to European Union and Member State competences, the Parties shall improve international cooperation in the area of tax, facilitate the collection of tax revenues, and develop measures for the effective implementation of those principles of good governance.

Article 27

The Parties shall enhance and strengthen their cooperation aimed at the improvement and development of the Republic of Armenia's tax system and administration, including the enhancement of collection and control capacity, ensure effective tax collection and reinforce the fight against tax fraud and tax avoidance. The Parties shall not discriminate between imported products and like domestic products, in accordance with Articles I and III of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (‘GATT 1994’). The Parties shall strive to enhance cooperation and the sharing of experiences in combating tax fraud and tax avoidance, in particular carousel fraud, as well as with regard to transfer pricing and anti-offshore regulation issues.

Article 28

The Parties shall develop their cooperation with a view to reaching shared policies for counteracting and fighting fraud and the smuggling of excisable products. The cooperation shall involve the exchange of information. To that end, the Parties shall look to strengthen their cooperation within the regional context and in line with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control of 2003.

Article 29

A regular dialogue shall take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

CHAPTER 3

Statistics

Article 30

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation on statistical issues, thereby contributing to the long-term objective of providing timely, internationally comparable and reliable statistical data. It is expected that a sustainable, efficient and professionally independent national statistical system shall produce information relevant for citizens, businesses and decision-makers in the European Union and in the Republic of Armenia, enabling them to take informed decisions on that basis. The national statistical system shall respect the UN Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics and take into account the EU acquis in the field of statistics, including the European Statistics Code of Practice, in order to align national statistical production with European norms and standards.

Article 31

Cooperation in the area of statistics shall aim at:

(a) further strengthening the capacity of the national statistical system, including legal basis, the production of good-quality data and metadata, dissemination policy and user-friendliness, and taking into account users in the public and private sectors, the academic community and society at large;

(b) the progressive alignment of the statistical system of the Republic of Armenia with norms and practice applied in the European Statistical System;

(c) the fine-tuning of data provision to the European Union, taking into account the application of relevant international and European methodologies, including classifications;

(d) enhancing the professional and management capacity of the national statistical staff to facilitate the application of statistical standards of the European Union and to contribute to the development of the statistical system of the Republic of Armenia;

(e) exchanging experience with regard to the development of statistical know-how; and

(f) promoting quality assurance and management in all statistical production processes and dissemination.

Article 32

The Parties shall cooperate within the framework of the European Statistical System in which Eurostat is the statistical office of the European Union. That cooperation shall ensure the professional independence of the statistical office and the application of the principles of the European statistics Code of practice as well as focus on the areas of:

(a) demographic statistics, including censuses and social statistics;

(b) agricultural statistics, including agricultural censuses;

(c) business statistics, including business registers and the use of administrative sources for statistical purposes;

(d) macroeconomic statistics, including national accounts, foreign trade statistics, balance-of-payments statistics and foreign direct-investment statistics;

(e) energy statistics, including balances;

(f) environment statistics;

(g) regional statistics; and

(h) horizontal activities, including quality assurance and management, statistical classifications, training, dissemination and the use of modern information technologies.

Article 33

The Parties shall, inter alia, exchange information and expertise and shall develop their cooperation, taking into account the experience accumulated in the reform of the statistical system launched within the framework of various assistance programmes. Efforts shall be directed towards further alignment with the EU acquis in statistics, on the basis of the national strategy for the development of the statistical system of the Republic of Armenia, and taking into account the development of the European Statistical System. Emphasis in the statistical data production shall be on the increased use of administrative records and streamlining statistical surveys, while taking into account the need to reduce response burden. The data produced shall be relevant for the design and monitoring of policies in key areas of social and economic life.

Article 34

A regular dialogue shall take place on the issues covered by this Chapter. To the extent possible, the activities undertaken within the European Statistical System, including training, shall be open for the participation of the Republic of Armenia.

Article 35

Gradual approximation of the legislation of the Republic of Armenia to the EU acquis in statistics shall be carried out in accordance with the annually updated Statistical Requirements Compendium as produced by Eurostat, which is considered by the Parties as annexed to this Agreement.

TITLE V

OTHER COOPERATION POLICIES

CHAPTER 1

Transport

Article 36

The Parties shall:

(a) expand and strengthen their transport cooperation in order to contribute to the development of sustainable transport systems;

(b) promote efficient, safe and secure transport operations as well as intermodality and interoperability of transport systems; and

(c) endeavour to enhance the main transport links between their territories.

Article 37

Transport cooperation shall cover, the following areas:

(a) the development of a sustainable national transport policy covering all modes of transport, in particular with a view to ensuring environmentally friendly, efficient, safe and secure transport systems and promoting the integration of transport-related considerations into other policy areas;

(b) the development of sector-specific strategies in light of the national transport policy (including legal requirements for the upgrading of technical equipment and transport fleets to meet highest international standards) for road, rail, inland waterway, maritime, aviation and intermodality, including timetables and milestones for implementation, administrative responsibilities as well as financing plans;

(c) the improvement of the infrastructure policy in order to better identify and evaluate infrastructure projects in the various modes of transport;

(d) the development of funding strategies focusing on maintenance, capacity constraints and missing-link infrastructure as well as activating and promoting the participation of the private sector in transport projects;

(e) accession to relevant international transport organisations and agreements, including procedures for ensuring strict implementation and effective enforcement of international transport agreements and conventions;

(f) cooperation and the exchange of information for the development and improvement of technologies in transport, such as intelligent transport systems; and

(g) the promotion of the use of intelligent transport systems and information technology in managing and operating all modes of transport as well as supporting intermodality and cooperation in the use of space systems and commercial applications facilitating transport.

Article 38

1. Cooperation shall also aim at improving the movement of passengers and goods, increasing fluidity of transport flows between the Republic of Armenia, the European Union and third countries in the region, promoting open borders with cross border movement by removing administrative, technical and other obstacles, enhancing the operation of the existing transport networks and developing infrastructure in particular on the main networks connecting the Parties.

2. Cooperation shall include actions to facilitate border crossings, taking into account the specificities of landlocked countries as referred to in the relevant international instruments.

3. Cooperation shall include information exchange and joint activities:

(a) at regional level, in particular taking into consideration progress achieved under regional transport cooperation arrangements such as the Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia (‘TRACECA’) and other transport initiatives at international level, including with regard to international transport organisations and international agreements and conventions ratified by the Parties; and

(b) in the framework of the various transport agencies of the European Union, as well as within the Eastern Partnership.

Article 39

1. With a view to ensuring the coordinated development and progressive liberalisation of air transport between the Parties adapted to their reciprocal commercial needs, the conditions of mutual market access in air transport should be addressed in accordance with the Common Aviation Area Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia.

2. Prior to the conclusion of the Common Aviation Area Agreement, the Parties shall not take any measures or actions which are more restrictive or discriminatory as compared with the situation existing prior to the entry into force of this Agreement.

Article 40

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

Article 41

1. The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union referred to in Annex I in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

2. Approximation may also take place through sectoral agreements.

CHAPTER 2

Energy cooperation, including nuclear safety

Article 42

1. The Parties shall cooperate on energy matters on the basis of the principles of partnership, mutual interest, transparency and predictability. Cooperation shall aim at regulatory approximation in the areas of the energy sector areas referred to hereinafter, taking into account the need to ensure access to secure, environmentally friendly and affordable energy.

2. That cooperation shall cover, inter alia, the following areas:

(a) energy strategies and policies, including for the promotion of energy security and diversity of energy supplies and power generation;

(b) the enhancement of energy security, including by stimulating the diversification of energy sources and routes;

(c) the development of competitive energy markets;

(d) the promotion of the use of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency and energy savings;

(e) the promotion of regional cooperation on energy and on integration into regional markets;

(f) the promotion of common regulatory frameworks to facilitate trade in oil products, electricity and potentially in other energy commodities, as well as a level playing field in terms of nuclear safety, aiming at a high level of safety and security;

(g) the civil nuclear sector, taking into account the specificities of the Republic of Armenia and focusing in particular on high levels of nuclear safety, on the basis of International Atomic Energy Agency (‘IAEA’) standards and standards and practices of the European Union referred to hereinafter, and on high levels of nuclear security, on the basis of international guidance and practices. The cooperation in that area will include: (i) the exchange of technologies, best practices and training in the fields of safety, security and waste management in order to ensure the safe operation of nuclear power plants; (ii) the closure and safe decommissioning of Medzamor nuclear power plant and the early adoption of a road map or action plan to that effect, taking into consideration the need for its replacement with new capacity to ensure the energy security of the Republic of Armenia and conditions for sustainable development;

(h) pricing policies, transit and transport, in particular a general cost-based system for the transmission of energy resources, if and when appropriate, and further precisions regarding access to hydrocarbons, as appropriate;

(i) the promotion of regulatory aspects reflecting key principles of energy market regulation and non-discriminatory access to energy networks and infrastructures at competitive, transparent and cost-effective tariffs, and adequate and independent oversight;

(j) scientific and technical cooperation, including the exchange of information for the development and improvement of technologies in energy production, transportation, supply and end use with particular attention to energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.

Article 43

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

Article 44

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the instruments referred to in Annex II in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 3

Environment

Article 45

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation on environmental issues, thereby contributing to the long-term objective of sustainable development and greening the economy. It is expected that enhanced environmental protection will bring benefits to citizens and businesses in the European Union and in the Republic of Armenia, including through improved public health, preserved natural resources, and increased economic and environmental efficiency, as well as through the use of modern, cleaner technologies contributing to more sustainable production patterns. Cooperation shall be conducted while taking into account the interests of the Parties on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, the interdependence existing between the Parties in the field of environmental protection, and multilateral agreements in that field.

Article 46

1. Cooperation shall aim at preserving, protecting, improving and rehabilitating the quality of the environment, protecting human health, utilising natural resources in a sustainable manner and promoting measures at international level to address regional or global environmental problems, including in the areas of:

(a) environmental governance and horizontal issues, including strategic planning, environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment, education and training, monitoring and environmental information systems, inspection and enforcement, environmental liability, combating environmental crime, transboundary cooperation, public access to environmental information, decision-making processes, and effective administrative and judicial review procedures;

(b) air quality;

(c) water quality and resource management, including flood-risk management, water scarcity and droughts;

(d) waste management;

(e) nature protection, including forestry and conservation of biological diversity;

(f) industrial pollution and industrial hazards;

(g) chemicals management.

2. Cooperation shall also aim at integrating the environment into policy areas other than environmental policy.

Article 47

The Parties shall, inter alia:

(a) exchange information and expertise;

(b) cooperate at regional and international level, especially with regard to multilateral environmental agreements ratified by the Parties; and

(c) cooperate in the framework of relevant agencies, as appropriate.

Article 48

The cooperation shall cover, inter alia, the following objectives:

(a) the development of a general national environmental strategy for the Republic of Armenia, covering: (i) planned institutional reforms (with timetables) for ensuring implementation and enforcement of environmental legislation; (ii) the division of competence for environmental administration at national, regional and municipal levels; (iii) procedures for decision-making and the implementation of decisions; (iv) procedures for the promotion of the integration of the environment into other policy areas; (v) the promotion of green economy measures and eco-innovation, the identification of the necessary human and financial resources and a review mechanism; and

(b) the development of sector-specific strategies for the Republic of Armenia (including clearly defined timetables and milestones for implementation, administrative responsibilities, as well as financing strategies for investments in infrastructure and technology) on: (i) air quality; (ii) water quality and resource management; (iii) waste management; (iv) biodiversity, nature conservation and forestry; (v) industrial pollution and industrial hazards; and (vi) chemicals.

Article 49

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

Article 50

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union and international instruments referred to in Annex III in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 4

Climate action

Article 51

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation to combat climate change. Cooperation shall be conducted while taking into account the interests of the Parties on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, as well as the interdependence existing between bilateral and multilateral commitments in that field.

Article 52

Cooperation shall promote measures at domestic, regional and international level, including with regard to:

(a) the mitigation of climate change;

(b) adaptation to climate change;

(c) market and non-market mechanisms for addressing climate change;

(d) research into and the development, demonstration, deployment, transfer and diffusion of new, innovative, safe and sustainable low-carbon and adaptation technologies;

(e) the mainstreaming of climate considerations into general and sector-specific policies; and

(f) awareness raising, education and training.

Article 53

1. The Parties shall, inter alia:

(a) exchange information and expertise;

(b) implement joint research activities and exchanges of information on cleaner and environmentally sound technologies;

(c) implement joint activities at regional and international level, including with regard to multilateral environmental agreements ratified by the Parties, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change of 1992 (‘UNFCCC’) and the Paris Agreement of 2015, and joint activities in the framework of relevant agencies, as appropriate.

2. The Parties shall pay special attention to transboundary issues and regional cooperation.

Article 54

The cooperation shall cover, inter alia, the following objectives:

(a) measures to implement the Paris Agreement in accordance with principles set out in this Agreement;

(b) measures to enhance the capacity to take effective climate action;

(c) the development of an overall climate strategy and action plan for the long-term mitigation of and adaptation to climate change;

(d) the development of vulnerability and adaptation assessments;

(e) the development of a low-carbon development plan;

(f) the development and implementation of long-term measures to mitigate climate change by addressing emissions of greenhouse gases;

(g) measures to prepare for carbon trading;

(h) measures to promote technology transfer;

(i) measures to mainstream climate considerations into sector-specific policies; and

(j) measures related to ozone-depleting substances and fluorinated gases.

Article 55

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

Article 56

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union and international instruments referred to in Annex IV in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 5

Industrial and enterprise policy

Article 57

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation on industrial and enterprise policy, thereby improving the business environment for all economic operators, but with particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (‘SMEs’). Enhanced cooperation should improve the administrative and regulatory framework for both businesses of the European Union and businesses of the Republic of Armenia operating in the European Union and in the Republic of Armenia, and should be based on the SME and industrial policies of the European Union, taking into account internationally recognised principles and practices in that field.

Article 58

The Parties shall cooperate in order to:

(a) implement strategies for SME development, based on the principles of the Small Business Act for Europe, and monitoring of the implementation process through regular reporting and dialogue. That cooperation will also include a focus on micro- and craft enterprises, which are extremely important for the economies of both the European Union and the Republic of Armenia;

(b) create better framework conditions, via the exchange of information and good practice, thereby contributing to improved competitiveness. That cooperation will include the management of structural changes (restructuring) and environmental and energy issues, such as energy efficiency and cleaner production;

(c) simplify and rationalise regulations and regulatory practice, with a specific focus on the exchange of good practice on regulatory techniques, including the principles of the European Union;

(d) encourage the development of innovation policy, via the exchange of information and good practice regarding the commercialisation of research and development (including support instruments for technology-based business start-ups), cluster development and access to finance;

(e) encourage greater contacts between businesses of the European Union and businesses of the Republic of Armenia, and between those businesses and the authorities of the European Union and the Republic of Armenia;

(f) support the establishment of export promotion activities in the Republic of Armenia;

(g) promote a more business-friendly environment, with a view to enhancing growth potential and investment opportunities; and

(h) facilitate the modernisation and restructuring of industry in the European Union and in the Republic of Armenia in certain sectors.

Article 59

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter. That dialogue will also involve representatives of European Union businesses and businesses from the Republic of Armenia.

CHAPTER 6

Company law, accounting and auditing, and corporate governence

Article 60

1. The Parties recognise the importance of an effective set of rules and practices in the areas of company law and corporate governance, as well as in accounting and auditing, in a functioning market economy with a predictable and transparent business environment, and underline the importance of promoting regulatory convergence in those fields.

2. The Parties shall cooperate on the following:

(a) the exchange of best practices for ensuring the availability of and access to information regarding the organisation and representation of registered companies in a transparent and easily accessible way;

(b) the further development of corporate governance policy in line with international and, in particular, OECD standards;

(c) the implementation and consistent application of International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) for the consolidated accounts of listed companies;

(d) the regulation and oversight of the audit and accountancy professions;

(e) international auditing standards and the Code of Ethics of the International Federation of Accountants (‘IFAC’), with the aim of improving the professional level of auditors by means of observance of standards and ethical norms by professional organisations, audit organisations and auditors.

CHAPTER 7

Cooperation in the areas of banking, insurance and other financial services

Article 61

The Parties agree on the importance of effective legislation and practices and to cooperate in the area of financial services with the objectives of:

(a) improving the regulation of financial services;

(b) ensuring effective and adequate protection of investors and consumers of financial services;

(c) contributing to the stability and integrity of the global financial system;

(d) promoting cooperation between different actors of the financial system, including regulators and supervisors;

(e) promoting independent and effective supervision.

CHAPTER 8

Cooperation in the field of the information society

Article 62

The Parties shall promote cooperation with regard to the development of the information society to benefit citizens and businesses through the widespread availability of information and communication technology (‘ICT’) and through better quality of services at affordable prices. That cooperation should aim at facilitating access to electronic communications markets and encourage competition and investment in the sector.

Article 63

Cooperation shall cover, inter alia, the following subjects:

(a) the exchange of information and best practice on the implementation of national information society strategies, including, inter alia, initiatives aimed at promoting broadband access, improving network security and developing public online services;

(b) the exchange of information, best practices and experience to promote the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework for electronic communications and, in particular, to strengthen the administrative capacity of the national independent regulator, to foster a better use of spectrum resources and to promote interoperability of networks in the Republic of Armenia and with the European Union.

Article 64

The Parties shall promote cooperation between the regulators from the European Union and national regulator of the Republic of Armenia in the field of electronic communications.

Article 65

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union and international instruments referred to in Annex V in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 9

Tourism

Article 66

The Parties shall cooperate in the field of tourism, with the aim of strengthening the development of a competitive and sustainable tourism industry as a generator of economic growth, empowerment, employment and foreign exchange.

Article 67

Cooperation at bilateral, regional and European level shall be based on the following principles:

(a) respect for the integrity and interests of local communities, in particular in rural areas;

(b) the importance of cultural heritage; and

(c) positive interaction between tourism and environmental preservation.

Article 68

The cooperation shall focus on the following topics:

(a) the exchange of information, best practices, experience and know-how, including with regard to innovative technologies;

(b) the establishment of a strategic partnership between public, private and community interests in order to ensure the sustainable development of tourism;

(c) the promotion and development of tourism products and markets, infrastructure, human resources and institutional structures as well as the identification and elimination of barriers to travel services;

(d) the development and implementation of efficient policies and strategies, including appropriate legal, administrative and financial aspects;

(e) tourism training and capacity building in order to improve service standards; and

(f) the development and promotion of community-based tourism.

Article 69

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

CHAPTER 10

Agriculture and rural development

Article 70

The Parties shall cooperate to promote agricultural and rural development, in particular through progressive convergence of policies and legislation.

Article 71

Cooperation between the Parties in the field of agriculture and rural development shall cover, inter alia, the following objectives:

(a) facilitating the mutual understanding of agricultural and rural development policies;

(b) enhancing the administrative capacities at central and local level in the planning, evaluation and implementation of policies in accordance with legislation of the European Union and best practices;

(c) promoting the modernisation and the sustainability of agricultural production;

(d) sharing knowledge and best practices with regard to rural development policies to promote economic well-being for rural communities;

(e) improving the competitiveness of the agricultural sector and the efficiency and transparency of the markets;

(f) promoting quality policies and their control mechanisms, in particular geographical indications and organic farming;

(g) disseminating knowledge and promoting extension services to agricultural producers; and

(h) enhancing the harmonisation of issues addressed within the framework of international organisations of which both Parties are members.

CHAPTER 11

Fisheries and maritime governance

Article 72

The Parties shall cooperate with regard to issues of mutual interest concerning fisheries and maritime governance, thereby developing closer bilateral, multilateral and international cooperation in the fisheries sector.

Article 73

The Parties shall take common action, exchange information and provide mutual support in order to promote:

(a) responsible fishing and fisheries management consistent with the principles of sustainable development, so as to conserve fish stocks and ecosystems in a healthy state; and

(b) cooperation through relevant multilateral and international organisations responsible for management and conservation of living aquatic resources, in particular by strengthening appropriate international monitoring and law-enforcement instruments.

Article 74

The Parties shall support initiatives, such as mutual exchange of experience and the provision of support, in order to ensure the implementation of a sustainable fisheries policy covering:

(a) the management of fisheries and aquaculture resources;

(b) inspection and control of fishing activities;

(c) the collection of catch, landing, biological and economic data;

(d) the improvement of the efficiency of the markets, in particular by promoting producer organisations and providing information to consumers, and through marketing standards and traceability;

(e) the sustainable development of areas with lake shore or including ponds or a river estuary and with a significant level of employment in the fisheries sector; and

(f) institutional exchange of experience on sustainable aquaculture legislation and its practical implementation in natural basins and artificial lakes.

Article 75

Taking into account their cooperation in the areas of fisheries, transport, environment and other sea-related policies, the Parties shall also cooperate and provide mutual support, when appropriate, with regard to maritime issues, in particular by actively supporting an integrated approach to maritime affairs and good governance in the relevant regional and international fora.

CHAPTER 12

Mining

Article 76

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation in the areas of mining and the production of raw materials, with the objectives of promoting mutual understanding, improving the business environment, exchanging information and cooperating on non-energy issues relating in particular to the mining of metallic ores and industrial minerals.

Article 77

The Parties shall cooperate in order to:

(a) exchange information on the developments in their mining and raw-material sectors;

(b) exchange information on matters related to trade in raw materials with the aim of promoting bilateral exchanges;

(c) exchange information and best practices in relation to the sustainable development of the mining industries; and

(d) exchange information and best practices in relation to training, skills and safety in the mining industries.

CHAPTER 13

Cooperation in research, technological development and innovation

Article 78

The Parties shall promote cooperation in all areas of civil scientific research, technological development and innovation on the basis of mutual benefit and subject to appropriate and effective protection of intellectual property rights.

Article 79

Cooperation referred to in Article 78 shall cover:

(a) policy dialogue and the exchange of scientific and technological information;

(b) the facilitation of adequate access to the respective programmes of each Party;

(c) initiatives to increase research capacity and the participation of research entities from the Republic of Armenia in the research framework programme of the European Union;

(d) the promotion of joint projects for research in all areas of research and innovation;

(e) training activities and mobility programmes for scientists, researchers and other research staff engaged in research and innovation activities on both sides;

(f) the facilitation, within the framework of applicable legislation, of the free movement of research workers participating in the activities covered by this Agreement and the cross-border movement of goods intended for use in such activities; and

(g) other forms of cooperation in research and innovation on the basis of mutual agreement.

Article 80

In carrying out such cooperation activities, synergies should be sought with activities funded by the International Science and Technology Centre (‘ISTC’) and other activities carried out within the framework of financial cooperation between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia as stipulated in Chapter 1 of Title VII.

CHAPTER 14

Consumer protection

Article 81

The Parties shall cooperate in order to ensure a high level of consumer protection and to achieve compatibility between their systems of consumer protection.

Article 82

For the purposes of this Chapter cooperation may comprise:

(a) aiming at approximation of the Republic of Armenia's consumer legislation to that of the European Union, while avoiding barriers to trade;

(b) promoting the exchange of information on consumer protection systems, including consumer legislation and its enforcement, consumer product safety, information exchange systems, consumer education and empowerment, and consumer redress;

(c) training activities for administration officials and other consumer interest representatives; and

(d) encouraging the development of independent consumer associations and contacts between consumer representatives.

Article 83

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union and international instruments referred to in Annex VI in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 15

Employment, social policy and equal opportunities

Article 84

The Parties shall strengthen their dialogue and cooperation on promoting the International Labour Organisation (‘ILO’) Decent Work Agenda, employment policy, health and safety at work, social dialogue, social protection, social inclusion, gender equality and anti-discrimination, and thereby contribute to the promotion of more and better jobs, poverty reduction, enhanced social cohesion, sustainable development and improved quality of life.

Article 85

Cooperation, based on exchange of information and best practices, may cover a selected number of issues to be identified among the following areas:

(a) poverty reduction and the enhancement of social cohesion;

(b) employment policy, aiming at more and better jobs with decent working conditions, including with a view to reducing the informal economy and informal employment;

(c) promoting active labour market measures and efficient employment services to modernise the labour markets and to adapt to labour market needs;

(d) fostering more inclusive labour markets and social safety systems that integrate disadvantaged people, including people with disabilities and people from minority groups;

(e) equal opportunities and antidiscrimination, aiming at enhancing gender equality and ensuring equal opportunities between women and men, as well as combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation;

(f) social policy, aiming at enhancing the level of social protection and modernising social protection systems, in terms of quality, accessibility and financial sustainability;

(g) enhancing the participation of social partners and promoting social dialogue, including through strengthening the capacity of all relevant stakeholders;

(h) promoting health and safety at work; and

(i) promoting corporate social responsibility.

Article 86

The Parties shall encourage the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including civil-society organisations and in particular social partners, in the policy development and reforms of the Republic of Armenia and in the cooperation between the Parties under this Agreement.

Article 87

The Parties shall aim to enhance cooperation on employment and social policy matters in all relevant regional, multilateral and international fora and organisations.

Article 88

The Parties shall promote corporate social responsibility and accountability and encourage responsible business practices, such as those promoted by the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the UN Global Compact, the ILO tripartite declaration of principles concerning multinational enterprises and social policy, and ISO 26000.

Article 89

A regular dialogue shall take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

Article 90

The Republic of Armenia shall carry out approximation of its legislation to the acts of the European Union and international instruments referred to in Annex VII in accordance with the provisions of that Annex.

CHAPTER 16

Cooperation in the area of health

Article 91

The Parties shall develop their cooperation in the field of public health with a view to raising its level, in line with common health values and principles, and as a precondition for sustainable development and economic growth.

Article 92

Cooperation shall address the prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, including through the exchange of health information, the promotion of a health-in-all-policies approach, cooperation with international organisations, in particular the World Health Organization, and the promotion of the implementation of international health agreements such as the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control of 2003 and the International Health Regulations.

CHAPTER 17

Education, training and youth

Article 93

The Parties shall collaborate in the field of education and training to intensify cooperation and policy dialogue with a view to approximating the education and training systems in the Republic of Armenia with policies and practices of the European Union. The Parties shall cooperate to promote lifelong learning and encourage cooperation and transparency at all levels of education and training, with a special focus on vocational and higher education.

Article 94

Cooperation in the field of education and training shall focus, inter alia, on:

(a) promoting lifelong learning, which is key to growth and jobs and can allow citizens to participate fully in society;

(b) modernising education and training systems, including training systems for public/civil servants, and enhancing quality, relevance and access throughout the education ladder, from early childhood education and care to tertiary education;

(c) promoting convergence and coordinated reforms in higher education in line with the European Union Agenda for Higher Education and the European Higher Education Area (‘Bologna Process’);

(d) reinforcing international academic cooperation, increasing participation in cooperation programmes of the European Union and improving student and teacher mobility;

(e) encouraging the learning of foreign languages;

(f) developing the national qualifications framework to improve the transparency and recognition of qualifications and competences within the European Network of Information Centres and National Academic Recognition Information Centres (‘ENIC-NARIC’) community aligned with the European Qualifications Framework;

(g) enhancing cooperation to further develop vocational education and training, while taking into consideration good practice in the European Union; and

(h) reinforcing understanding and knowledge of the European integration process, the academic dialogue on EU-Eastern Partnership relations, and participation in relevant programmes of the European Union, including in the field of civil service.

Article 95

The Parties agree to collaborate in the field of youth to:

(a) reinforce cooperation and exchanges in the fields of youth policy and non-formal education for young people and youth workers;

(b) facilitate the active participation of all young people in society;

(c) support mobility for young people and youth workers as means of promoting intercultural dialogue and the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competences outside the formal educational systems, including through volunteering; and

(d) promote cooperation between youth organisations to support civil society.

CHAPTER 18

Cooperation in the cultural field

Article 96

The Parties will promote cultural cooperation in accordance with the principles enshrined in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (‘UNESCO’) Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions of 2005. The Parties will seek a regular policy dialogue in areas of mutual interest, including the development of cultural industries in the European Union and the Republic of Armenia. Cooperation between the Parties will foster intercultural dialogue, including through the participation of the culture sector and civil society from the European Union and the Republic of Armenia.

Article 97

Cooperation shall focus on, inter alia:

(a) cultural cooperation and cultural exchanges;

(b) the mobility of art and artists and the strengthening of the capacity of the cultural sector;

(c) intercultural dialogue;

(d) cultural policy dialogue;

(e) the Creative Europe Programme; and

(f) cooperation in international fora such as UNESCO and the Council of Europe in order to support cultural diversity and preserve and valorise cultural and historical heritage.

CHAPTER 19

Cooperation in the audiovisual and media fields

Article 98

The Parties will promote cooperation in the audiovisual field. Cooperation shall strengthen the audiovisual industries in the European Union and the Republic of Armenia, in particular through training of professionals and the exchange of information.

Article 99

1. The Parties shall develop a regular dialogue with regard to audiovisual and media policies and cooperate to reinforce independence and professionalism of the media as well as links with media in the European Union in compliance with European standards, including those of the Council of Europe and the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions of 2005.

2. Cooperation could cover, inter alia, the issue of the training of journalists and other media professionals, as well as support to the media.

Article 100

Cooperation shall focus on, inter alia:

(a) policy dialogue on audiovisual and media policies;

(b) cooperation in international fora (such as UNESCO and the WTO); and

(c) audiovisual and media cooperation, including cooperation in the field of cinema.

CHAPTER 20

Cooperation in the field of sport and physical activity

Article 101

The Parties shall promote cooperation in the field of sport and physical activity, in particular through the exchange of information and good practices in order to promote a healthy lifestyle, good governance as well as the social and educational values of sport and in order to fight against threats to sport such as doping, match-fixing, racism and violence within the European Union and the Republic of Armenia.

CHAPTER 21

Civil-society cooperation

Article 102

The Parties shall establish a dialogue on civil-society cooperation, with the following objectives:

(a) to strengthen contacts and the exchange of information and experience between all sectors of civil society in the European Union and in the Republic of Armenia;

(b) to ensure a better knowledge and understanding of the Republic of Armenia, including its history and culture, in the European Union and in particular among civil-society organisations based in Member States, thus allowing for a better awareness of the opportunities and challenges for future relations; and

(c) to ensure a better knowledge and understanding of the European Union in the Republic of Armenia and in particular among civil-society organisations in the Republic of Armenia, with a non-exclusive focus on the values on which the European Union is founded, its policies and its functioning.

Article 103

1. The Parties shall promote dialogue and cooperation between civil-society stakeholders from both sides as an integral part of the relations between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia.

2. The aims of such dialogue and cooperation are:

(a) to ensure involvement of civil society in relations between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia;

(b) to enhance civil-society participation in the public decision-making process, in particular by establishing an open, transparent and regular dialogue between, on the one hand, public institutions and, on the other, representative associations and civil society;

(c) to facilitate the process of institution-building and the consolidation of civil-society organisations in various ways, including inter alia: advocacy support, informal and formal networking, mutual visits and workshops, in particular with a view to improving the legal framework for civil society; and

(d) to enable civil-society representatives from each side to become acquainted with the processes of consultation and dialogue between civil and social partners on the other side, in particular with a view to further integrating civil society into the public policy-making process in the Republic of Armenia.

Article 104

A regular dialogue will take place between the Parties on the issues covered by this Chapter.

CHAPTER 22

Regional development, cross-border and regional level cooperation

Article 105

1. The Parties shall promote mutual understanding and bilateral cooperation in the field of regional development policy, including methods of formulation and implementation of regional policies, multi-level governance and partnership, with special emphasis on the development of disadvantaged areas and territorial cooperation, with the objective of establishing channels of communication and enhancing the exchange of information and experience between national, regional and local authorities, socio-economic actors and civil society.

2. In particular, the Parties shall cooperate with a view to aligning the practice of the Republic of Armenia with the following principles:

(a) strengthening multi-level governance in so far as it affects the central, regional and local level, with special emphasis on ways to enhance the involvement of regional and local stakeholders;

(b) consolidating the partnership between all stakeholders involved in regional development; and

(c) co-financing through financial contribution by the Parties involved in the implementation of regional development programmes and projects.

Article 106

1. The Parties shall support and strengthen the involvement of local- and regional-level authorities in regional-policy cooperation, including cross-border cooperation and the related management structures, enhance cooperation through the establishment of an enabling legislative framework, sustain and develop capacity-building measures and promote the strengthening of cross-border and regional economic and business networks.

2. The Parties will cooperate to consolidate the institutional and operational capacities of institutions of the Republic of Armenia in the fields of regional development and land-use planning by, inter alia:

(a) improving interinstitutional coordination, in particular the mechanism of vertical and horizontal interaction of central and local administration in the process of development and implementation of regional policies;

(b) developing the capacity of regional and local authorities to promote cross-border cooperation, taking into account regulations and practice of the European Union; and

(c) sharing knowledge, information and best practices on regional development policies to promote economic well-being for local communities and uniform development of the regions.

Article 107

1. The Parties shall strengthen and encourage development of cross-border cooperation in other areas covered by this Agreement such as, inter alia, transport, energy, environment, communication networks, culture, education, tourism and health.

2. The Parties shall intensify cooperation between their regions in the form of transnational and inter-regional programmes, encouraging the participation of regions of the Republic of Armenia in European regional structures and organisations and promoting their economic and institutional development by implementing projects of common interest.

3. The activities referred to in paragraph 2 will take place in the context of:

(a) continuing territorial cooperation with European regions (including through transnational and cross-border cooperation programmes);

(b) cooperation within the framework of the Eastern Partnership and with bodies of the European Union including the Committee of the Regions, and participation in various European regional projects and initiatives; and

(c) cooperation with, inter alia, the European Economic and Social Committee (‘EESC’), and the European Spatial Planning Observation Network (‘ESPON’).

Article 108

A regular dialogue will take place on the issues covered by this Chapter.

CHAPTER 23

Civil protection

Article 109

The Parties shall develop and strengthen their cooperation on natural and man-made disasters. Cooperation shall be conducted while taking into account the interests of the Parties on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, as well as the interdependence existing between the Parties and multilateral activities in the field.

Article 110

Cooperation shall aim at improving the prevention of, preparation for and response to natural and man-made disasters.

Article 111

The Parties shall, inter alia, exchange information and expertise and implement joint activities on a bilateral basis and/or within the framework of multilateral programmes. Cooperation may take place, inter alia, through the implementation of specific agreements and/or administrative arrangements concluded between the Parties in the field of civil protection. The Parties may jointly decide on specific guidelines and/or work plans for the activities contemplated or planned under this Agreement.

Article 112

The cooperation may cover the following objectives:

(a) exchanging and regularly updating contact details in order to ensure continuity of dialogue and in order to be able to contact each other on a 24-hour basis;

(b) facilitating mutual assistance in case of major emergencies, as appropriate and subject to the availability of sufficient resources;

(c) exchanging on a 24-hour basis early warnings and updated information on large-scale emergencies affecting the European Union or the Republic of Armenia, including requests for and offers of assistance;

(d) exchanging information on the provision of assistance by Parties to third countries for emergencies where the EU Civil Protection Mechanism is activated;

(e) cooperating with regard to host-nation support when requesting or providing assistance;

(f) exchanging best practices and guidelines in the field of disaster prevention, preparedness and response;

(g) cooperating on disaster risk reduction by addressing, inter alia: institutional linkages and advocacy; information, education and communication; and best practices aimed at preventing or mitigating the impact of natural hazards;

(h) cooperating with a view to improving the knowledge base on disasters and on hazard and risk assessment for disaster management;

(i) cooperating with regard to the assessment of the environmental and public-health impact of disasters;

(j) inviting experts to specific technical workshops and symposia on civil-protection issues;

(k) inviting, on a case-by-case basis, observers to specific exercises and training sessions organised by the European Union and/or the Republic of Armenia; and

(l) strengthening cooperation on the most effective use of available civil-protection capabilities.

TITLE VI

TRADE AND TRADE RELATED MATTERS

CHAPTER 1

Trade in goods

Article 113

Most-favoured-nation treatment

1. Each Party shall accord most-favoured-nation treatment to goods of the other Party in accordance with Article I of GATT 1994 contained in Annex 1A of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization, done on 15 April 1994 (‘WTO Agreement’), including its interpretative notes, which are incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, mutatis mutandis.

2. Paragraph 1 of this Article does not apply in respect of preferential treatment accorded by either Party to goods of another country in accordance with GATT 1994.

Article 114

National treatment

Each Party shall accord national treatment to goods of the other Party in accordance with Article III of GATT 1994, including its interpretative notes, which is incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, mutatis mutandis.

Article 115

Import duties and charges

Each Party shall apply import duties and charges in accordance with its obligations established under the WTO Agreement.

Article 116

Export duties, taxes or other charges

Neither Party shall adopt or maintain any duties, taxes or other charges imposed on, or in connection with, the exportation of goods destined to the territory of the other Party that are in excess of those imposed on like goods destined for the domestic market.

Article 117

Import and export restrictions

1. Neither Party may adopt or maintain any prohibition or restriction other than duties, taxes or other charges, whether made effective through quotas, import or export licences or other measures, on the importation of any good of the other Party or on the exportation or sale for export of any good destined for the territory of the other Party, in accordance with Article XI of GATT 1994 and its interpretative notes. To this end, Article XI of GATT 1994, including its interpretative notes, is incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, mutatis mutandis.

2. The Parties shall exchange information and good practices with regard to export controls on dual use goods with a view to promoting the convergence of the export controls of the European Union and of the Republic of Armenia.

Article 118

Remanufactured goods

1. The Parties shall accord to remanufactured goods the same treatment as that provided to new like goods. A Party may require specific labelling of remanufactured goods in order to prevent the deception of consumers.

2. For greater certainty, Article 117 paragraph 1 applies to prohibitions and restrictions on remanufactured goods.

3. In accordance with its obligations under this Agreement and the WTO Agreements, a Party may require that remanufactured goods:

(a) be identified as such for distribution or sale in its territory; and

(b) meet all applicable technical requirements that apply to equivalent goods in new condition.

4. If a Party adopts or maintains prohibitions or restrictions on used goods, it shall not apply those measures to remanufactured goods.

5. For the purposes of this Article, a remanufactured good means a good that:

(a) is entirely or partially comprised of parts obtained from goods that have been used beforehand, and;

(b) has similar performance and working conditions compared to the original new good and is given the same warranty as the new good.

Article 119

Temporary admission of goods

Each Party shall grant the other Party exemption from import charges and duties on goods admitted temporarily, in the instances and according to the procedures stipulated by international agreements on the temporary admission of goods binding upon it. This exemption shall be applied pursuant to the laws and regulations of each Party.

Article 120

Transit

The Parties agree that the principle of freedom of transit is an essential condition for attaining the objectives of this Agreement. In that connection, each Party shall provide for freedom of transit through its territory of goods consigned from or destined for the territory of the other Party in accordance with Article V of GATT 1994, including its interpretative notes, which is incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, mutatis mutandis.

Article 121

Trade defence

1. Nothing in this Agreement shall prejudice or affect the rights and obligations of each Party under:

(a) Article XIX of GATT 1994 and the Agreement on Safeguards, contained in Annex 1A to the WTO Agreement;

(b) Article 5 of the Agreement on Agriculture, contained in Annex 1A to the WTO Agreement, on special safeguard provisions; and

(c) Article VI of GATT 1994, the Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994, contained in Annex 1A to the WTO Agreement, and the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, contained in Annex 1A to the WTO Agreement.

2. The existing rights and obligations referred to in paragraph 1, and measures resulting therefrom, shall not be subject to the dispute settlement provisions of this Agreement.

Article 122

Exceptions

1. The Parties affirm that their existing rights and obligations under Article XX of GATT 1994 and its interpretative notes shall apply to trade in goods covered by this Agreement. To that end Articles XX of GATT 1994, including its interpretative notes, is incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, mutatis mutandis.

2. The Parties understand that before taking any measures provided for in subparagraphs (i) and (j) of Article XX of GATT 1994, the Party intending to take the measures shall supply the other Party with all relevant information, with a view to seeking a solution acceptable to the Parties. The Parties may agree on any means needed to put an end to the difficulties. If no agreement is reached within 30 days of supplying such information, the Party may apply measures under this Article with regard to the good concerned. Where exceptional and critical circumstances requiring immediate action make prior information or examination impossible, the Party intending to take the measures may apply forthwith the precautionary measures necessary to deal with the situation and shall inform the other Party immediately thereof.

CHAPTER 2

Customs

Article 123

Customs cooperation

1. The Parties shall strengthen cooperation in the area of customs in order to facilitate trade, ensure a transparent trade environment, enhance supply chain security, promote safety of consumers, prevent flows of goods infringing intellectual property rights and fight smuggling and fraud.

2. In order to implement the objectives referred to in paragraph 1 and within the limits of available resources, the Parties shall cooperate to, inter alia:

(a) improve customs legislation, regulations, practice