Armenian PM discusses South Caucasus' European integration prospects

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has refrained from commenting on the potential for Azerbaijan's European integration, while highlighting Armenia’s own European aspirations. 

Speaking at the 8th Paris Peace Forum, Pashinyan addressed questions regarding a potential agreement with Azerbaijan and its possible implications for both countries' paths toward the European Union, Caliber.Az reports per Armenian media. 

Pashinyan made it clear that while it would be inappropriate for Armenia to speak on behalf of Azerbaijan, the recent passage of a law in Armenia supporting EU membership was a strong indicator of the country's ambitions.

According to Pashinyan, Armenia’s pursuit of closer ties with the European Union was driven by a clear vision for the future, but any steps taken by Azerbaijan toward European integration were ultimately its own decision.

The prime minister also emphasised the regional context of Armenia’s aspirations, noting that the European prospects of neighbouring Georgia had played a significant role in Armenia's own ambitions.

A year ago, Georgia was granted EU candidate status, a development that Pashinyan suggested was a factor in Armenia’s decision to push forward with its own European integration goals.

By Sabina Mammadli