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Countries striving to break free from Russia’s orbit will inevitably face its resistance and provocations. This must be expected, met with calm resolve, and addressed with a clear focus on set goals. This was emphasised by the Speaker of the Saeima, Daiga Mieriņa, on Friday, 24 January, during a meeting in Yerevan with members of the Armenian Parliament's Committees on Foreign Affairs and European Integration.

As essential prerequisites for successful European integration, representatives of the NB8 countries highlighted the normalisation of relations among the region’s neighbouring countries, the withdrawal of Russian military personnel from Armenia, and the diversification of trade relations. Currently, Armenia’s economy remains largely oriented towards Russia and other members of the Eurasian Economic Union.

Armenian parliamentarians expressed gratitude for the support provided thus far by the NB8 countries, including the visa liberalisation dialogue and the activities of the European Union (EU) Civil Mission in Armenia, which contribute to a greater sense of security.

Armenia can always rely on the advice and support of the Baltic and Nordic countries; however, the setting of goals and decisions regarding the country’s direction rest solely in its own hands, the Speaker of the Saeima underlined. The Baltic States made their choices immediately after regaining independence and worked determinedly to become EU and NATO member states.

The NB8 countries are committed to providing support and expertise to Armenia in areas such as good governance, election organisation, gender equality, and the development of civil society.

From 21 to 25 January, the Speaker of the Saeima, Daiga Mieriņa, together with other representatives of NB8 parliaments, is visiting Armenia. The focus of the visit is on issues related to Armenia’s closer integration with Europe and its reform process.

The Baltic and Nordic countries share significant cooperation within the NB8 framework, which unites five Nordic countries – Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Sweden – and three Baltic States – Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. Estonia is represented on this visit by the Speaker of Parliament, Lauri Hussar, and Lithuania by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Juozas Olekas. Denmark is represented by a member of the Parliament’s Presidium, Karsten Hønge, Norway by the Speaker of Parliament, Masud Gharahkhani, Finland by the Speaker of Parliament, Jussi Halla-aho, and Sweden by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Kenneth G. Forslund.

Within the NB8 framework, regular meetings are held between prime ministers, parliamentarians, ministers, and other officials. It is customary for the NB8 format to include visits to countries outside the region to address issues of democracy, peace, and the rule of law, as well as to share best practices in the reform process.

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Saeima Press Service