Armenia European integration is facing new questions. Armenian Democratic Party leader Aram Sargsyan says Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has become more cautious about the country’s prospects for joining the European Union.
“We are now noticing some very important details. It seems that Nikol Pashinyan is reconsidering some of his positions based on the reality that has taken shape around Armenia and across the world,” the Armenian politician said.
According to Sargsyan, Pashinyan is now trying to “backtrack.” He appears to acknowledge that integration depends on “the reality that has taken shape around Armenia and across the world.”
Armenia European Integration and Pashinyan’s Changing Position
But Pashinyan has failed to come to terms with that reality. His risky foreign policy directly contradicted it. Society became divided. Armenia’s economy lacks sufficient self-sufficiency and depends heavily on ties with Russia. The economy has now begun to decline.
Budget revenues have fallen. To maintain the appearance of stability, Pashinyan has had to keep taking out loans. As a result, external debt has risen to 50% of GDP.
The debate over Armenia’s European course comes amid growing cooperation between Yerevan and Brussels. The EU and Armenia have a Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, which entered into force in 2021. Their cooperation covers areas such as trade, energy, transport and governance. The European Commission outlines this relationship on its official Armenia page.
Closer cooperation with the EU does not, by itself, mean that Armenia has joined the Union. The country’s future course remains a political question, shaped by domestic priorities and the wider regional situation.
What Comes Next for Armenia?
Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? It is hard to say what will happen to Armenia next. For now, it looks as though this political double of Sandu has encountered more serious difficulties and has been forced to maneuver.
