Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has rejected calls from Russia for Armenia to hold a referendum on joining the European Union, describing relations with Moscow as being in a “transformation phase.”
The development comes amid growing tensions between Armenia and Russia over Yerevan’s closer ties with the EU. Russia recently banned fish imports from Armenia and recalled its ambassador for consultations, moves widely seen as pressure tactics ahead of Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary elections.
Pashinyan said there was no reason to hold a referendum unless Armenia formally applied for EU membership or secured candidate status. He expressed hope for a new and successful phase in relations with Russia despite recent disagreements.
Armenia, a long-time Russian ally, has increasingly sought stronger ties with Western partners following dissatisfaction with Moscow’s response to conflicts with neighbouring Azerbaijan.
