Lavrov Says Russia Hears Armenia’s Complaints “With Surprise”

YEREVAN — Recent statements and complaints from Armenia directed at Russia have caused both surprise and an emotional reaction in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said.

“We maintain regular contacts at the level of deputy prime ministers. Any issue of concern to the Armenian side can be discussed, including the situation involving South Caucasus Railway, which is managed by Russian Railways,” Lavrov said.

“We listen with surprise to the way these issues are being raised. Even if such concerns arise, tell your partner what you think about them,” he continued.

“Instead, we hear public statements from the Armenian side saying that all of this belongs to them and that we owe them $2 billion.”

Lavrov said such statements provoke an emotional reaction among Russian citizens in addition to questions arising from economic assessments.

“I understand that, apart from assessments based on economic analysis, this also causes emotions among our citizens. I am no exception,” he said.

Asked how Russia could avoid making what the questioner described as the same mistakes in relations with Armenia that occurred in the case of Ukraine, Lavrov said Moscow had done everything it could on its part.

He pointed to what he described as the benefits Armenia receives from its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union, including access to Russian energy supplies at significantly lower prices.

“All of our positions are well known, as are the advantages Armenia receives from membership in the Eurasian Economic Union, including energy supplies from us at prices three to four times lower than those in the European Union. I assume there are good economists there,” Lavrov said.