Russian Economic Restrictions Are a Mistake That Pushes People Against the EAEU, Pashinyan Says

GEGHARKUNIK  — Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Russia’s economic restrictions on Armenian goods are a mistake that could turn public opinion against the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Speaking to Russia’s Izvestia newspaper during a campaign event in Gegharkunik on June 2, Pashinyan said Armenians clearly understand the economic benefits of EAEU membership, but argued that the bloc should focus on creating new opportunities rather than imposing restrictions.

“In this situation, the EAEU should open new opportunities so that the Union’s reputation in Armenia grows stronger, not weaker,” Pashinyan said.

The prime minister also referred to his June 1 phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Yesterday I spoke with the President of Russia. He called to congratulate me on my birthday. We discussed current issues, and we had a positive conversation. I believe that the best step now would simply be to abandon all forms of restrictions,” Pashinyan said.

He expressed confidence that constructive dialogue remains the best path forward in resolving the current trade disputes between Armenia and Russia.