The eighth European Political Community Summit took place in Yerevan, Armenia this week, as 48 leaders from across the continent joined together to cooperate more closely as the very bedrock of the liberal democratic order is under threat.
Held under the motto ‘Building the Future: Unity and Stability in Europe,’ the summit confronted urgent issues. In a notable first, a non-European leader was invited, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attending as a guest – emblematic of closer ties between Europe and Canada as the U.S. continues to retreat into isolationism.
With the recent global turbulence, there was much for European liberals to discuss: security concerns and hybrid threats, Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression, the Middle East and impact on fuel prices and Moldova’s European future.
Focus was placed on Europe’s reaction to geopolitical developments, the bloc’s economic resilience and security in an increasingly complex environment, which makes working together even more important. As Carney pointed out, Europe is not destined to simply “submit” to a more brutal world, but it can lead its own fate.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin (Fianna Fáil, IE) highlighted the Summit’s relevance:
“The EPC summit is focused on building the future of unity and stability in Europe. Participation by so many European leaders as well as Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney showcases its unique value. To be in such a forum where we can exchange views and connect has never been more important. Ireland looks forward to hosting the next meeting in November in Dublin and we are delighted to receive the baton from Armenia.”
The summit which featured over 40 heads of state and government symbolically places Armenia at the heart of Europe, as it is the first bilateral meeting between the European bloc and Armenia – as well as the first EPC Summit to take place in the South Caucasus.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, commented on the importance of Europe’s support for Armenia ahead of this year’s elections, with foreign interference creating problems:
“Armenia is a key pillar in our relationship with the South Caucasus. Today we forged closer ties on trade, energy and digital. The EU will support the Armenian people in choosing their own destiny, including with a new EU mission to counter foreign interference and strengthen resilience.”
Europe’s future vision is centred in democratic resilience and institutions that uphold peace and stability – and liberals are playing a key role in fighting for the rules-based international order this relies on.
Find out more about what our liberals said at this year’s summit: