Armenian PM signals shift towards Russia

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has indicated upcoming changes in foreign policy this autumn, hinting at potential surprises.

Pashinyan intends to re-establish strong ties with Russia, Caliber.Az reports citing the Armenian media.

"The prime minister plans to realign with Russia, citing dissatisfaction with the EU's lack of acceptance, inadequate financing, insufficient actions in this regard, and inadequate security guarantees," the statement reads.

Russia and Armenia share a complex and historically rooted relationship that encompasses political, economic, military, and cultural dimensions. Russia and Armenia maintain a strategic partnership, reinforced by mutual interests in regional security and economic cooperation. Armenia hosts a Russian military base in Gyumri, reflecting their defence alliance under the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO). This base plays a crucial role in Russia's military presence in the South Caucasus. Russia is an important economic partner for Armenia. Bilateral trade includes exports of Armenian agricultural products and imports of Russian energy resources. Russia provides financial aid and investments in Armenian infrastructure projects, contributing to economic development. Armenia relies on Russia for its energy needs, including natural gas supplies. The two countries collaborate on energy projects aimed at ensuring stable energy supply to Armenia.