Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow understands the pre-election processes underway in Armenia and expressed hope they will not affect relations between the two countries.

Speaking during a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Putin noted that domestic political processes in Armenia are entering an active phase.

“We see that internal political processes in Armenia are gaining momentum, and elections are approaching,” he said.

According to Putin, the political tension during an election period is natural but should not impact bilateral relations.

“The important thing is that these tensions do not harm our relations in any way,” he emphasized.

“We have many friends in Armenia, many, many. We know that,” he said, adding that more than 2 million Armenians live in the Russian Federation.

He expressed hope that various political forces in Armenia, including those with pro-Russian orientations, will be able to participate in the elections.

“We would very much like all political parties and figures to be able to take part in these domestic political processes during the elections,” he said.

At the same time, Putin stressed that Russia does not interfere in Armenia’s internal affairs.

“That is your decision, we do not interfere,” he said, referring to certain figures currently imprisoned in Armenia.