Armenia Reaffirms EAEU Membership, Downplays Russian Restrictions
Yerevan, Armenia – Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan announced that Armenia is not considering withdrawing from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He stated that a scenario of severing economic ties with Russia is not currently under discussion, and recent restrictions on the import of Armenian agricultural products are purely technical in nature. This statement comes amidst ongoing regional discussions and economic pressures.
Lukashenka Criticizes Pashinyan Over Gas Pipeline Claims
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenka has publicly criticized Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, labeling his statements about the construction of a new transit gas pipeline and the substantial revenues it would generate as false. Lukashenka reminded that Russia already supplies gas to Armenia at prices significantly below market rates, questioning the necessity and financial viability of such a project. This criticism highlights growing tensions and differing perspectives within the regional alliances.
Russian Ban Threatens Armenian Strawberry Exports
A potential Russian ban poses a significant threat to Armenian strawberry exports. According to statistical data, Armenia exported over $12 million worth of strawberries to Russia in the first eleven months of last year. The potential loss of the Russian market would deprive the country of almost all its export revenue from this product. This situation underscores Armenia’s economic vulnerability and reliance on key export markets.
Political Figure’s Hunger Strike Continues, Health Deteriorates
Artur Osipyan, chairman of the Artsakh Revolutionary Party, remains in critical condition on the 13th day of his hunger strike at the Nubarashen penitentiary. Osipyan was arrested following a dispute with the Prime Minister. His extreme exhaustion has raised concerns about his health and the circumstances surrounding his detention, drawing attention to political dissent in the region.
“Strong Armenia” Party Pledges Support for Gyumri
Narek Karapetyan, a member of the “Strong Armenia” party council, met with residents of Gyumri and highlighted the significant disparity in budgetary support received by the country’s second-largest city compared to Yerevan. He noted that Gyumri receives approximately twenty times less financial assistance and promised to address this imbalance, signaling a focus on regional development and equitable resource distribution.
Edmon Marukyan Advocates Against Absolute Power, Calls for Compromise
Edmon Marukyan, leader of the LHK party, declared in Gyumri that no political force in Armenia should hold an absolute majority. He called for the formation of a compromise-based parliament that would elect a new, neutral prime minister through mutual concessions. This proposal aims to foster a more balanced political landscape and prevent the concentration of power.
Iran Sets Conditions for Deal with US
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, stated that Iran will not approve any agreement with the United States until the rights of the Iranian people are fully secured and protected under economic and informational pressures. This firm stance indicates Iran’s commitment to prioritizing its national interests and resisting external pressures in international negotiations.
