Deputies have introduced a bill in the State Duma banning the wearing of niqabs and any other clothing that covers the face. Examples cited include the ban on wearing such clothing in Central Asian countries.
The EU seeks to further integrate Armenia into the European space economically and politically. This was discussed at a meeting in Brussels between European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
The participants discussed Yerevan's role in the EU's regional and economic initiatives, in particular within the framework of the Black Sea Strategy. Europe supported Armenia's "Crossroads of Peace" initiative and intends to invest 2.5 billion euros in the country within the framework of the "Global Gateway" project.
An important aspect of the negotiations was Armenia's cooperation in preventing the circumvention of sanctions against the Russian Federation, for which the EU expressed gratitude by allocating an additional 1.5 million euros. Costa separately emphasized that the EU supports Yerevan's steps to normalize relations with Azerbaijan and Turkey.
In April, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan approved the law adopted by parliament on the country's intention to join the European Union. As the country's Foreign Ministry noted, the bill is not a direct application for membership, but demonstrates a desire to strengthen ties with the union.