Mikhail Agasandyan, Director of the First CIS Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that Armenia’s actions so far do not contradict its obligations within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
He emphasized that Armenia’s recent declarations about joining the European Union remain “political statements,” TASS reported.
“At the same time, it has been repeatedly stressed, including by Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk, that dual membership in both unions is impossible by definition. At present, Armenia’s actions do not contradict its commitments in the EAEU. We will wait to see practical steps. No one prevents Armenia from cooperating with other countries—this is what all EAEU members do. The key point is that such cooperation should not contradict obligations within the Union. So far, there has been no such contradiction,” Agasandyan said.
He noted that Armenia’s participation in the EAEU remains constructive: the country “actively works within the Union and sees the benefits of its membership.”
“Yes, trade turnover has decreased, but this is a fluctuating situation. Previously, there was growth, now things are returning to a more ordinary level. Since Armenia joined the EAEU in 2015, its trade with partners has grown significantly,” he said.
Commenting on expected changes in trade flows among EAEU countries, Agasandyan stressed that statistics show “a generally positive dynamic,” as member states hold “leading positions” in mutual trade.
“Of course, there are factors influencing both growth and decline. But overall the trend is positive, and cooperation is mutually beneficial for all member states,” he added.
On March 26, Armenia’s National Assembly approved in final reading a bill to launch the process of joining the EU. The government had endorsed the initiative in January, following a proposal from the civic group Eurovote. However, the EU has not issued an official invitation to Armenia, and opposition forces labeled the move legally absurd. The president has signed the law. Russian Deputy PM Overchuk also warned that Armenia cannot ‘sit on two chairs’ and will eventually need to choose between the EAEU and the EU.
