YEREVAN, August 29. /ARKA/. The issue of Armenia's accession to the European Union is not on the agenda at this stage, said the country's Finance Minister Vage Ovanisyan in an interview with Shant TV.
"Moving towards the EU means changing Armenian standards. Before becoming a member of the EU, it is necessary to bring all standards in line with European criteria," Ovanisyan said.
According to him, regardless of whether Armenia will ever become a member of the EU, improving standards is in the interests of the republic itself.
"We are talking about modernizing infrastructure, regulation, and legislative changes. Currently, the issue of joining the EU is not on the table," the minister emphasized.
Ovanisyan noted that the question of choice may arise after Armenia changes its standards and meets European requirements and criteria for EU membership.
"Until then, there is nothing to choose from. It is necessary to work on improving standards," the Finance Minister stated.
He reminded that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also stated that the issue of the country's accession to the EU is not on the agenda at this stage.
"Armenia cannot join the EU today, tomorrow, or next year, as standards need to be improved," Ovanisyan said.
At the same time, the minister emphasized that improving standards in Armenia could also be beneficial in terms of its participation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Armenia Between the EU and EAEU
The Armenian authorities declare a course towards rapprochement with the EU and a transition to European standards, while also stating their intention to maintain membership in the EAEU as long as participation in both integration directions is compatible.
Moscow has repeatedly warned about the possible economic consequences of Armenia transitioning to EU standards. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that in this case, Russia would have to curtail economic integration with Armenia. According to his estimates, the republic could lose up to 14% of GDP in case of rising energy prices after leaving the EAEU.
Armenia's Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure David Khudatyan, for his part, stated that gas supplies are currently secured, contacts with partners continue, and potential risks remain manageable for the country's economy.
