Armenia Seeks Putin’s Help Over Russian Trade Restrictions

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan asked Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call on Monday to help resolve a dispute over restrictions on Armenian exports.

Last month, Moscow temporarily banned imports of several Armenian products, including fruit and vegetables, flowers, fish and alcoholic beverages.

Pashinyan said the measures violated bilateral agreements and the rules of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), while stressing that Yerevan remained ready to resolve outstanding disputes through dialogue.

Relations between the two countries have become increasingly strained as Armenia strengthens ties with the West. Pashinyan’s Civil Contract party won re-election in June, defeating several pro-Russian opposition parties.

The Kremlin said Putin told Pashinyan that his proposal to seek European Union membership should be put to a nationwide referendum “as soon as possible”. Moscow has warned that Armenia could be suspended from the EAEU if it continues pursuing EU membership.

Russia remains a key economic partner for Yerevan, accounting for about 35% of Armenia’s foreign trade last year and providing most of its energy supplies.

(Reuters, Max)