Armenia fully understands EU and EAEU membership incompatibility, FM Mirzoyan

Armenia does not intend to create tensions in its relations with Russia, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan reiterated on Tuesday.

Speaking at a joint press conference with his Lithuanian counterpart Kęstutis Budrys, Mirzoyan stressed that Armenia and Russia remain partners linked by many ties and are committed to continuing constructive dialogue.

“Armenia does not intend to create tensions in its relations with Russia. We are partners connected by numerous ties and are committed to conducting healthy discussions and developing these mutually beneficial relations in a healthy environment,” Mirzoyan said.

According to him, as in all relations around the world, there are issues, but it is necessary to find solutions through constructive discussions.

Mirzoyan also emphasized the importance of respecting each other’s right to make independent decisions in bilateral relations.

“We fully understand, and it is not from Russia that we need to be told, that membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and membership in the EU are incompatible. It is impossible for us to remain in the EAEU and become an EU member at the same time. We will continue moving closer to the EU, and when the time comes for us to make a decision about belonging to one or another group, we will make that decision. There is nothing new here, and once again, this is not something we need to be told from outside,” the minister added, stressing that Armenia is inclined to continue positive, healthy cooperation in all directions based on mutual respect and interests.

Russian officials have recently stated that Armenia should choose between remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union and pursuing potential European Union membership. Russian President Vladimir Putin also suggested that the Armenian authorities hold a referendum on the issue.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has stated on several occasions that Armenia does not intend to leave the Eurasian Economic Union as long as the processes of European Union integration and EAEU membership do not conflict with each other.