Pashinyan Says Armenia Could Apply for EU Membership in 2027 or 2028

YEREVAN — Armenia could formally apply for membership in the European Union in 2027 or 2028, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on November 3 during the 2026 EU Enlargement Summit organized by Euronews in Brussels.

“Next year could be realistic. The year 2028 could also be realistic. We have launched a process that will lead us to a final decision on submitting a formal application for membership in the European Union,” Pashinyan said.

The prime minister described EU membership as a strategic choice aimed at safeguarding Armenia’s democracy.

“For our people, democracy is not a matter of circumstances. It is a strategic choice. The European Union has been one of the Republic of Armenia’s key partners in implementing our democratic reform agenda,” he stated.

Pashinyan emphasized that his government’s primary objective is to create new opportunities and alternatives for Armenia and its citizens.

“Our primary goal is to create an alternative for the people of Armenia and the Republic of Armenia because, traditionally, there has been a perception within our society, and perhaps among our neighbors as well, that Armenia has no alternative,” he said.

Addressing relations with Russia, Pashinyan stressed that Armenia seeks to diversify its political and economic partnerships.

Asked by Euronews about former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s warning that Armenia could become “the next Ukraine,” Pashinyan responded that Armenia’s objective is to strengthen its sovereignty and independence.

“Our goal is to elevate and further develop our independence. That is a legitimate objective. No one can restrict Armenia’s aspiration to become a more independent and more integrated country,” he declared.