The presidents of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan have called on Armenia to hold a nationwide referendum on the question of joining the European Union, according to the Kremlin press service.

“We share the view that a nationwide referendum should be held in the Republic of Armenia as soon as possible on whether to join the European Union or continue its participation in the Eurasian Economic Union,” the leaders said in a joint statement adopted following the summit in Astana, RIA Novosti reports.

The document also states that members of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council will present a report in December on the potential consequences of suspending the application of the EAEU Treaty with respect to Armenia.

The four leaders further stressed the need to prevent any potential damage to the union that could result from Yerevan’s preparations for accession to the European Union.

Earlier in May, Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Armenia to clarify its position regarding participation in either the European Union or the EAEU as soon as possible. He has repeatedly stated that every country has the right to choose its partners, but that simultaneous membership in both integration frameworks is not feasible.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan did not attend the summit in Kazakhstan, where the issue was expected to be discussed, citing his election campaign commitments. He has also stated that if Armenia decides to leave the EAEU, the process would be planned in advance and would not require a referendum.