Moscow again puts Armenia before a choice between the EAEU and the European Union

Simultaneous membership of Armenia in the EU and the EAEU is impossible. This was recalled by Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Galuzin.

“Our Armenian colleagues will probably have to decide at some point which direction they are going. This is our ally, a strategic partner, with whom we are connected, just like with Georgia, by a centuries-old common history, a common victory in the Great Patriotic War, the 80th anniversary of which we will, I hope, celebrate together on May 9,” Galuzin said.

He warned that Armenia’s decision to follow the path of European integration will entail a revision of the established economic relations that Yerevan currently has with its partners along the EAEU line.

“This will probably be a rather painful process, including, unfortunately, for the population of Armenia. It is logical to assume that the country's leadership will explain to its population what it can lose by leaving the EAEU, and what it can actually gain from membership in the European Union," the official shared his thoughts.

Recently, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan signed a law on the beginning of the country's accession process to the European Union.

"The Republic of Armenia, seeking to develop democratic institutions, improve the welfare of society, strengthen security, sustainability and the rule of law, announces the beginning of the process of the Republic of Armenia's accession to the European Union," the document says.

Recall that, according to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the adoption of the law does not mean automatic accession of Armenia to the European Union - the final decision can only be made in a referendum. He also noted that Armenia "feels good" as part of the EAEU and is interested in developing relations with Iran, but at the same time, "a certain and sensitive part of the population" strives for a European future for the country.

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