Armenian Prime Minister admits that the country may not join EU and outlines main goal

YEREVAN, September 23. /ARКА/. Armenia may not become a member of the European Union; our aim is to align with EU standards across all sectors, stated Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

"There is considerable debate within society regarding the feasibility of EU membership for Armenia. The government and the ruling majority assert that our objective is to meet EU standards in every area... This is of utmost importance, as many perceive geopolitical factors in this context," Pashinyan remarked on Tuesday during a panel discussion at the Armenian Democracy Forum.

The Prime Minister underscored that the forthcoming phase of democratic reforms will involve establishing Armenia's clear and steadfast commitment to EU values.

On March 26, 2025, the National Assembly of Armenia ratified a draft law concerning the country's accession to the European Union. Subsequently, on April 4, the President of Armenia enacted the law.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan indicated that Armenia does not intend to cut economic ties with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Russia, but is focused on economic diversification and aims to enhance trade relations with the European Union.

The head of government also pointed out that initiating the EU accession process mitigates certain foreign policy risks. He stated that Armenia can only achieve EU membership if the populace endorses this initiative through a referendum, and the primary challenge confronting Armenia in the EU accession journey is adherence to EU standards.-0-