Russian Foreign Ministry says Armenia’s actions "do not yet contradict its obligations in EAEU
YEREVAN, September 18. /ARКА/. According to Mikael Agasandyan, the Director of the First Department of CIS Countries at the Russian Foreign Ministry, Yerevan's current actions are not in conflict with its commitments within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as reported by TASS.
He pointed out that Armenia's declarations regarding its intention to join the European Union are presently only "political declarations."
"Moreover, it has been reiterated multiple times, including by [Russian Deputy Prime Minister] Alexey Overchuk, that simultaneous membership in both associations is unfeasible due to their inherent nature. Armenia's current actions do not violate its obligations in the EAEU. We will continue to observe its practical measures. No restrictions are placed on Armenia's cooperation with other nations—all EAEU members engage in such activities. The crucial aspect is that this cooperation does not conflict with its responsibilities within the Union," Aghasandyan remarked.
He further noted, "This is not the situation at present."
He indicated that the nature of Armenia's involvement in the union has not altered and remains constructive. The country "is actively engaged in the EAEU and recognizes the advantages of its participation."
"Indeed, trade has diminished, but this is a fluctuating scenario," Aghasandyan commented.
"There was a previous increase, but now everything is reverting to a more stable trajectory. Analyzing the trends over the past years since Armenia's accession to the EAEU in 2015, its trade with partners has significantly escalated."
On March 26, 2025, the National Assembly of Armenia ratified a draft law on starting the process of accession to the European Union. Subsequently, on April 4, the President of Armenia enacted the law.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that Armenia does not intend to terminate its economic relationships with the EAEU and does not seek to diminish trade with the EAEU and Russia. He indicated that Armenia is focused on economic diversification and aims to enhance trade with the European Union.
The Prime Minister further remarked that initiating the EU accession process mitigates certain foreign policy risks. He asserted that Armenia can only become a member of the EU if the populace endorses this initiative through a referendum, and the primary obstacle confronting Armenia in the EU accession journey is adherence to EU standards.-0-
