The European Union initiated a civilian mission, known as EUMA, at the borders of Armenia with Azerbaijan on Monday. According to an official statement released by the EU, the primary objective of this mission is to promote peace and stability in the affected conflict areas and establish trust and human security, EU Schengen Visa Info reported.
Moreover, the EU expects that the mission will assist in creating a conducive atmosphere for normalization talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, facilitated by the EU. The EU emphasized that the mission comprises solely of civilian personnel and will have approximately 100 members, including 50 unarmed observers.
“The mission’s operational headquarters will be in Yeghegnadzor, in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia. EEAS Managing Director of the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability (CPCC), Stefano Tomat, will serve as the Civilian Operation Commander, while Markus Ritter will serve as the Head of Mission,” the statement reads.
High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, stated in a press release a month ago that EUMA will undertake regular patrols and provide updates on the situation, which will enhance the EU’s understanding of the ground reality. Borrell also noted that the mission will support mediation efforts in the process overseen by the President of the European Council, Charles Michel.
On December 27th of last year, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia invited the EU to establish a civilian CSDP mission in Armenia. Subsequently, on January 23, 2023, the Council adopted a resolution creating the EUMA. As the EU Council has explained, the EUMA is a non-executive and impartial mission that will continue for two years.
