Pashinyan, Putin discuss trade disputes, Armenia's EU ambitions in phone call

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan discussed strains in bilateral economic relations and Armenia's European Union aspirations during a telephone conversation on Monday (July 27), the Armenian government said.

According to a statement from Pashinyan's office, the two leaders exchanged views on the Armenia-Russia agenda, focusing on problems that have emerged in economic ties between the two countries.

Pashinyan raised concerns over restrictions on exports of Armenian-origin goods to the Russian market, arguing that the measures contradict the legal framework governing Armenia-Russia relations as well as the rules of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

The Armenian prime minister urged Putin to take steps to resolve the issue, the statement said.

The conversation also touched on Armenia's possible future accession to the European Union, following a joint declaration adopted on May 29 by the leaders of four EAEU member states referring to the prospect of an Armenian referendum on EU membership.

Pashinyan said such a referendum could only be held after Armenia formally submits an application to join the EU, making the issue a concrete policy matter.

He also reaffirmed his government's commitment to addressing outstanding issues with Russia through "open, partner-like and friendly dialogue", according to the statement.

The Kremlin had not immediately issued its own readout of the conversation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev