"Fact" daily writes:
Recently, relations between the European Union and Armenia are entering a new, more complicated phase. Kaya Callas, the high representative of the EU's foreign affairs and security policy, stated in an open text that one of the mandatory conditions for rapprochement with the EU is to join the anti-Russian sanctions. This message was delivered after the meeting of the EU-Armenia Partnership Council, when a new strategic agenda of relations was adopted.
Callas pledged 15 million euros in support for demining, regional trust and the fight against foreign interference. At the same time, he noted the low level of compliance of Armenia's foreign policy with the EU positions, 37 percent, and highlighted Russia's disinformation campaigns. But behind these proposals, many see an obvious convention.
Armenia's unprecedented economic growth in recent years is largely due to its ties with Russia within the Eurasian Economic Union, in terms of export volumes, investments and business activity. Joining the sanctions could lead to a drop in exports, a freeze on investment and uncertainty for businesses, directly affecting ordinary citizens.
Political scientist Suren Surenyants notes that the Brussels bureaucracy is driven by anti-Russian motives and faces tough choices for its partners. "They are very strict: either you are against Russia and you are with us, or you are not with us. I hope that the RA government will not go to the adventure of submitting an application for EU membership," he says.
Andranik Tevanyan, head of the "Mother Armenia" party, believes that the EU seeks to make Russia's friendly countries a tool in its global struggle. In his opinion, Nikol Pashinyan has found himself in a difficult situation, trying to maintain power between external pressures and economic interests. Thus, Armenia faces a crucial choice.
Rapprochement with Europe may open new perspectives, but its price may be the loss of economic sovereignty. Authorities must weigh all risks based solely on national interests.
Details in today's issue of "Past" daily
