Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin, Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Armenia, has issued a New Year's message. It reads as follows, in particular:

"A festive period is approaching, and we will leave another challenging year behind us soon.

COVID pandemic continued to affect worldwide the health, economic security, and social well-being. The wounds caused by the Nagorno Karabakh war and the sense of fragile security still persist. We all realise that the hardships are not yet over.

Speaking for all of us at the European Union Delegation to Armenia, I can assure you that we are putting every possible effort to support Armenia and the Armenian people in these challenging times.

The EU continues to work to mitigate the impact of pandemics and consequences of war and help improve the lives of Armenian citizens, create jobs, and foster economic growth.

The EU has rapidly responded to the urgent needs of Armenia and its citizens during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Team Europe package of close to 100 million euros was provided not only through budget support to the government but also through a targeted social assistance to over 3000 vulnerable households. We facilitated access to online education for 350 children and supported over 1000 Armenian SMEs to develop new digital approaches for their businesses. Critical medical equipment for patient care was provided to hospitals and laboratories.

Together with our Member States, we continued to support the civilians affected by the conflict in the region.

The EU stands by Armenia to improve the life of Armenian citizens with support in the field of socio-economic development and investments.

Dear people of Armenia,

I hope you have a peaceful new year and that you regain your strength for yourself, your loved ones, and Armenia. Let the New Year get us better, stronger, and hopeful for brighter days to come.

Thank you".