Armenia aims to resolve trade and diplomatic issues with Russia, says PM Pashinyan

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said he hoped Yerevan could mend its relationship with Russia and address a number of "problematic issues" that have arisen recently. The comments were made during a joint news conference with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Yekaterinburg, Pashinyan's first visit to Russia since his re‑election.

Moscow had imposed wide‑ranging trade restrictions on Armenia in the run‑up to the parliamentary election, temporarily banning imports of many Armenian goods, including fresh produce, flowers, fish and alcoholic products. The restrictions have strained ties as Armenia, a treaty ally of Russia, has pursued a more pro‑Western course, prompting Moscow to threaten suspension from the Eurasian Economic Union. Armenia remains heavily dependent on Russian energy and trade, with Russia accounting for about 35% of its foreign trade last year. The EU has provided €52 million in economic support and eased export rules for Armenian goods.

Pashinyan expressed a willingness to continue developing relations with Russia and reiterated Armenia’s interest in participating in the Eurasian Economic Union.