Brussels, 20/03/2013 (Agence Europe) - Armenia progressed in a number of areas but effort remains to be made on implementing and applying legislation on human rights and fundamental freedoms issues, the Commission's 2012 progress report - published on 20 March - highlights. The report emphasises the continuation of implementing macro-economic policies and structural reforms, efforts in poverty reduction and social cohesion, and significant progress in the negotiations for an association agreement with the EU and for the agreement on visa facilitation signed in December. The elections were transparent and the freedoms of assembly and expression were generally respected. Erevan took measures to reform its judicial system and public administration.
However, the EU underlines that further effort must be made - particularly on the shortcomings identified at the elections in 2012 and 2013. Armenia must finalise its draft law on the freedom of conscience and religion, and must adopt full legislation on the fight against discrimination. The fight against corruption, the strengthening of implementing governance reforms, and the continuation of reform of the public administration are needed. Sectoral reforms need to be continued, and as does moving closer to the acquis in trade matters, and stepping up effort for a competitive economic environment. Armenia must increase its efforts in providing a solution to Nagorny Karabakh and ensuring free access to EU representatives. (CG/transl.fl)