Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2024
146. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on Ireland’s contribution to the EU Mission in Armenia; if, given the announced expansion of the observer mission, he will commit to seeking a greater role; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16735/24]
View answerIreland is an active and committed supporter of EU civilian crisis management, and we welcomed the establishment of an EU civilian CSDP mission in Armenia in January 2023. This commitment by the EU sends an important signal of support for the stability and security of the South Caucasus region.
The Mission's mandate, or purpose, is to assess the impact of the conflict on populations in areas affected by conflict, to report on the security situation, and, through these actions, to build confidence among the population and authorities of both Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Since October 2023, Ireland has deployed two civilian experts as monitors to the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA). These experts are two of twenty four Irish civilian experts who provide essential expertise to eight of the EU's civilian CSDP missions in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
These deployments are kept under review in line with the needs of the missions themselves, Ireland's own CFSP priorities, budget, and the availability of qualified personnel.
