ArmInfo. There is no discussion within the Armenian government regarding a withdrawal from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as stated by Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan during a press-briefing.
"There is no such agenda. Armenia is a member of the EAEU; therefore, speculating on the impact [of a withdrawal] is akin to the story of 'The Death of Kikos' (a reference to mourning a tragedy that has not occurred – Ed.). There is nothing of the sort, and it is truly appropriate to recall the tale of 'Kikos' here," the Minister noted when asked if the government had calculated the potential consequences of leaving the union.
This statement follows remarks made by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a press briefing last Saturday. President Putin suggested that Armenia's plans regarding the European Union should be discussed at the next EAEU summit. He asserted that it would be "only right" toward the citizens of Armenia and Russia—as the republic's primary economic partner—to hold a referendum on the development of cooperation with the EU. In such an event, Putin stated, Russia could draw the necessary conclusions and pursue the path of a "gentle, intelligent, and mutually beneficial divorce."
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has repeatedly stated that Armenia seeks to join the European Union but must first meet its standards. He noted that Armenia would remain within the EAEU for as long as it remains compatible. However, during negotiations with Pashinyan on April 1, President Putin emphasized that being in a customs union with both the EU and the EAEU is "impossible by definition," framing it as a strictly economic issue.
