European Commission Vice-President visits YSU

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, in his welcome address, highlighted that YSU is the largest university in Armenia, both in terms of its teaching staff and student enrollment, as well as its range of professional programs.

"YSU also leads in the number of published scientific articles, with research by its scientists appearing not only in Armenian journals but also in high-ranking international publications. The university ranks first among Armenian institutions on various global rating platforms. We are committed to continuous progress, consistently enhancing our educational programs and environment," said the YSU rector.  

Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, speaking about the Armenia-EU partnership, emphasized its crucial importance for Armenia's citizens from both political and economic perspectives. He particularly highlighted the issue of visa liberalization.

Vice President of the European Commission Margaritis Schinas expressed his pleasure at being at Yerevan State University, one of the region's oldest and most respected institutions, where he noted the vibrant presence of many young people.

"Although Armenia is geographically far from Europe, it is a fact that we have common interests, values, and aspirations. We have the same determination, which is becoming more and more evident in society fighting for the strengthening of democracy, the rule of law, injustice, and corruption, as well as for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms," he pointed out. 

The vice president of the European Commission also discussed the investment programs implemented by the EU in Armenia, stressing that the EU will continue to support Armenia within the framework of various programs.

Speaking about the process of visa liberalization, Margaritis Schinas expressed hope that Armenian citizens will soon be able to travel freely within Europe. He also highlighted the significance of the "Erasmus+" program, which provides Armenian students the opportunity to pursue their education at leading EU universities.   

"These are important achievements, but we are not limited to this," he stressed.

At the end of the lecture, YSU students posed questions to the vice president of the European Commission. The questions addressed a range of topics, including Armenia's foreign policy processes and the expansion of educational and economic cooperation.

EU Ambassador to Armenia Vasilis Maragos, along with members of YSU’s teaching staff and students, were also in attendance at the lecture.