PM Pashinyan confirms Putin meeting, hints at momentous decision on Armenia’s economic alignment

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has announced key developments on both the diplomatic and strategic fronts, signaling a period of active engagement with Russia and a critical juncture in Armenia’s geopolitical alignment.

Speaking ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Beijing, Pashinyan confirmed that he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 1, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

“I am glad that my visit is awaited in Russia, and I always look forward to an invitation to Russia. As I have already mentioned, I will have contacts with the President of Russia in Beijing, and in late SeptemberI plan to visit Russia,” Pashinyan said.

He also emphasized the ongoing active communication channels between the two nations.

Following this diplomatic announcement, Pashinyan addressed a pivotal issue concerning Armenia’s future economic and political orientation—its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) versus aspirations toward integration with the European Union (EU). Highlighting the incompatibility of simultaneous membership in both blocs, the Prime Minister indicated that Armenia will, in due course, make an “appropriate decision” reflecting national interests.

“We understand that simultaneous membership in the EU and the EAEU is impossible. When the moment of an inevitable choice comes, we will make the appropriate decision,” he stated.

Pashinyan further elaborated that the final path will be determined by “the will of our people, analysis of the situation, prospects, and the results of negotiations.”

By Vafa Guliyeva