MOSCOW — Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on July 6 that he hopes to repair strained relations with Russia and resolve recent “problematic issues,” as Moscow continues to pressure Yerevan over its shifting foreign policy.
Speaking alongside Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Yekaterinburg, Pashinyan said the meeting offered “a good opportunity” to synchronise positions after a period of tension. His remarks came during his first visit to Russia since winning re-election in last month’s parliamentary vote.
Relations between the two countries have deteriorated as Armenia has moved closer to the West, drawing criticism from Moscow. Russian authorities recently imposed broad trade restrictions on Armenian goods, temporarily banning imports including fresh produce, flowers, fish and alcoholic products.
Pashinyan told Mishustin that Armenia remains committed to developing ties with Russia and wants to stay active in the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union. He said the two sides should use the visit to address issues that have emerged in recent months.
At the same time, the European Union has increased support for Armenia after the election, disbursing €52 million in economic assistance and easing export rules for some Armenian goods bound for European markets.