YEREVAN — Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has accused former President Robert Kocharyan, Strong Armenia alliance leader Samvel Karapetyan, and Prosperous Armenia Party chairman Gagik Tsarukyan of using their connections within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to create difficulties for Armenia.
Speaking during a campaign event in Martuni, Gegharkunik Province, Pashinyan said the three opposition forces were attempting to undermine Armenia’s interests after realizing they were likely to lose the upcoming elections.
“I know there are concerns in Martuni regarding developments within the EAEU. The EAEU is based on four fundamental principles: the free movement of goods, services, labor, and capital. Today, the three-party war coalition is using various connections within the EAEU to create problems for its own country during the election period. Understanding that they have failed and are headed for a crushing defeat, they are calling, traveling, and acting like spies to create difficulties for our country,” Pashinyan said.
The prime minister also referred to his June 1 phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The President of Russia called to congratulate me on my birthday, but we also had substantive discussions. We agreed that after the elections I will travel again, we will meet, and we will resolve all current issues,” Pashinyan said.
In recent weeks, Russian officials have repeatedly called on Armenia to clarify its position regarding membership in the EAEU and its growing ties with the European Union.
President Vladimir Putin has suggested that Armenia hold a referendum on the issue as soon as possible. Pashinyan has responded that such a referendum is premature because Armenia has not formally applied for EU membership.
The leaders of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan also adopted a joint statement calling on Armenia to hold a nationwide referendum regarding its future relationship with the EAEU and the European Union.
At the same time, Russia has imposed restrictions on a wide range of Armenian imports, including flowers, certain alcoholic beverages, fish products, Jermuk mineral water, fruits, and vegetables.
