"There will be inevitable changes in relations between Armenia and Russia" — Pashinyan

“There will be inevitable changes in relations between Armenia and Russia” — Pashinyan

Relations between Armenia and Russia will inevitably change. This was stated by the country's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in an interview with Boon TV. According to him, these changes are not related to a specific individual or political force.

“The change in our relations with Moscow is inevitable, and this has nothing to do with any person or political force. No matter who it is, relations between Armenia and Russia will never be the same as before,” he said.

Pashinyan also added that the previously formed format of relations with Russia arose under conditions of conflict. Now, it was noted, Armenia is living in an atmosphere of peace. He explained the expected changes by this very factor.

At the same time, the Prime Minister stated that he has no intention of breaking ties with Moscow.

“We want to deepen our relations, but in a new environment and under new conditions. Armenia is not entering into a conflict with Moscow. On the contrary, it will continue to calmly and consistently defend its position,” Nikol Pashinyan said.

On September 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Nikol Pashinyan held talks on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek. One of the main topics of the meeting was Armenia's intention to join the European Union and the impact of this decision on relations with Russia.

In his statement, the Russian leader said that Moscow supports the development of friendly and mutually beneficial ties with Armenia. However, he noted that Yerevan's European choice could create difficulties in further cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

In turn, Nikol Pashinyan confirmed that Armenia is interested in further developing and deepening relations with Russia. He also added that he does not consider the aspiration to join the European Union as a violation of agreements with Russia and the EAEU.

Earlier, Pashinyan expressed his opinion about the Russian military base in the country, saying:

“If they want to withdraw the base, please, let them withdraw it tomorrow. If they want to stay, we are ready to discuss the terms,” Pashinyan said.