Armenian PM affirms commitment to balance relations with Russia, EU, regional neighbors

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that Armenia has no intention of deteriorating its relations with Russia, underlining that the two nations' ties are based on mutual interests.

Speaking at a press conference in Tallinn alongside his Estonian counterpart, Kristen Mihal, Pashinyan reassured that Armenia seeks to maintain positive relations with all international partners, including Russia, Caliber.Az reports citing Armenian media.

"Relations between Armenia and Russia are, and will remain, rooted in mutual interests. However, I would like to clarify that, at times, there are statements within Armenia that, in my view, misrepresent the situation. We have absolutely no intention of escalating, severing, or undermining our relations with Russia," Pashinyan stated.

He stated that Armenia aims to enhance its relations with Azerbaijan and Türkiye, while also seeking to strengthen ties with Georgia and Iran.

"We also wish to deepen our relationship with the European Union. The law passed in Armenia to initiate the EU accession process is a clear manifestation of this intent. It serves as an additional impetus for our democratic reforms," the Armenian Prime Minister remarked.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism that Armenia will address emerging issues and disagreements in its foreign policy through transparency and openness in its relations with all partners.

Earlier, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that the adoption of the EU accession law does not signify an automatic decision, as it must be ratified through a referendum. He further clarified that Armenia "feels comfortable" within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and is keen on enhancing relations with Iran. However, he acknowledged that a "certain and sensitive portion of the population" desires a European-oriented future for the country.

Commenting on the bill's adoption, the Kremlin warned that it is impossible for Armenia to simultaneously be a member of both the Eurasian Economic Union and the European Union. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk stated that Moscow views the situation as potentially signaling Armenia's departure from the EAEU.

By Vafa Guliyeva