Expert: Armenia, Georgia navigate nearly impossible path to EU market

The European market is almost inaccessible to countries that are not members of the European Union, according to Shota Apkhadze, an expert from the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.

He made these remarks during the scientific and cultural forum "From Traditions to Security", organised by the Russian Cooperation mission in Armenia, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media

"The market is highly diversified. It is practically nonsensical, almost fantastical, for countries like Armenia and Georgia, which are not EU members, to enter the internal European market. Even candidates for EU membership are heavily restricted in every area. There are so many requirements and standards," Apkhadze explained.

He continued by reflecting on the experiences of Eastern Europe, including the Baltic States, Eastern Balkans, Romania, and Bulgaria, when they joined the EU. According to him, "In these countries, virtually all industry and agriculture died out. This is due to monopolies – French and Spanish producers, the capitalist system. When the Eastern socialist bloc joined this capitalist framework, of course, the monopolists destroyed everything. They don't need competition; they need a sales market and cheap labour."

However, Apkhadze did acknowledge that not everything about European integration is negative. "There are benefits to be gained, such as grants and subsidies," he said.

"But it depends on where these funds go. Ultimately, the state structure remains unchanged. And when it comes to Georgia and Armenia, we must understand that joining the EU is a lengthy process. Regardless of the stages a country goes through, the decision is political and lies with the Western European countries. If it's in their interest, they will accept it. If it's not, they won't."

Apkhadze specifically mentioned Türkiye as an example, noting that despite its economic superiority to many European countries, it has not been accepted into the EU. "This is because, geographically and in terms of national and religious composition, Türkiye is not needed in the European Union," he said.

He concluded by stating, "The same is true for Georgia and Armenia. This is the objective reality. No matter what fairy tales politicians come up with, driven by their own interests, this remains complete nonsense."

By Aghakazim Guliyev