Armenian PM prepares coalition with pro-European politicians

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has positioned pro-European politicians advocating for a referendum on Armenia’s EU membership.

These politicians successfully persuaded members of the Armenian Civil Contract party to initiate parliamentary hearings and called on authorities to propose the referendum, confident in public support, Caliber.Az reports citing Hraparak newspaper.

However, Pashinyan independently decided against holding a referendum, citing his awareness of public opinion. He also noted that a campaign would be necessary if a referendum were to proceed.

The prime minister stated that the question of EU membership hinges on the EU's readiness to accept Armenia, a matter complicated by ongoing internal processes and elections within the EU.

He emphasised Armenia's declared political will for integration at the highest levels. Pashinyan and his pro-Western allies are pushing for a referendum on EU membership to bolster support and enhance the standing of pro-European figures such as Aram Sargsyan, Arman Babajanyan, and Tigran Khzmalyan. This strategy aims to strengthen their electoral prospects and potentially form a coalition with Pashinyan to secure power.

The debate over Armenia's potential EU membership reflects broader geopolitical dynamics and internal political strategies. Pashinyan's handling of the referendum issue and alignment with pro-European sentiments will likely shape Armenia's foreign policy direction and domestic political landscape in the coming months, influencing relations with the European Union and regional stability.

Pashinyan's decision-making regarding the EU membership referendum underscores Armenia's evolving stance on European integration and its implications for national governance and international relations. The interplay between domestic political dynamics and external diplomatic considerations will continue to define Armenia's path forward in the European context.