Armenia balancing EU agenda while remaining in EAEU – Pashinyan

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Armenia is pursuing a balanced foreign policy by advancing cooperation with the European Union while maintaining its commitments within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.

Pashinyan noted that although full membership in both frameworks is structurally incompatible, Armenia’s current agenda with the European Union remains workable alongside its obligations in the EAEU.

“We understand that, in principle, membership in the two frameworks is incompatible. However, the agenda we are pursuing at this stage is compatible, and as long as such opportunities exist, we will continue to combine them,” Pashinyan said.

He emphasized that any future strategic decision regarding Armenia’s alignment would be determined by the country’s citizens.

The Armenian prime minister reaffirmed that relations with Russia remain a key pillar of Armenia’s foreign policy, describing bilateral ties as deep and continuously developing, particularly in the context of new regional realities.

For his part, President Vladimir Putin stressed that closer integration with the European Union — particularly in terms of customs arrangements — cannot be combined with EAEU membership, citing fundamental differences in regulatory systems, including trade and phytosanitary standards.

At the same time, Putin said Moscow views Armenia’s dialogue with the EU “calmly,” noting that countries naturally seek to expand cooperation with external partners.

The leaders also discussed economic cooperation, highlighting growing trade turnover and collaboration in sectors such as energy and agriculture. Pashinyan pointed to ongoing joint work in the energy sphere, including discussions on the construction of a new nuclear power plant, while noting that Armenia is considering proposals from multiple international partners.