Pashinyan says Armenian citizens should decide between EAEU and EU membership

Armenian citizens should have the opportunity to choose whether the country remains a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) or pursues membership in the European Union, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during an election campaign event in Armenia’s Kotayk Province.

Speaking while on leave from his official duties, Pashinyan, who also serves as chairman of the ruling Civil Contract party, stressed that such a decision should belong to the people rather than political leaders.

“The people of Armenia should have an alternative – whether to remain within the EAEU or become part of the European Union. I will not decide that; the citizens of Armenia will decide,” Pashinyan said.

According to the prime minister, the government’s role is to ensure citizens have choices and viable alternatives.

Pashinyan also criticized what he described as “hidden threats” coming from some partners in response to Armenia’s ongoing political and geopolitical discussions. He argued that such approaches are counterproductive. “Our partners should present proposals and explain what benefits they can offer. Instead, they say they will take negative measures or create difficulties. That is illogical,” he stated.

Pashinyan specifically rejected threats related to potential increases in prices, saying Armenia would be able to overcome such challenges through expanded economic opportunities. “It is also illogical to threaten Armenia with higher prices, because there is an answer to that threat: we will have much greater economic opportunities so that it will not become a problem for us,” he said.

The prime minister further highlighted his government’s regional connectivity vision, saying Armenia is becoming a “Crossroads of Peace.” “Today Armenia is becoming the ‘Crossroads of Peace.’ This means Armenia will no longer be a country of thousands or millions, but a country of billions and trillions,” Pashinyan said.