“We are not going to ‘divorce’ any partner or have a ‘divorce’ from any partner in our relations. In general, I do not think politics and diplomacy have particularly recognized such divorces throughout history,” Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan said during a joint press conference with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, referring to statements coming from Russia following the Armenia-EU summit and events organized within the framework of the EPC in Armenia in May, particularly the Russian president’s call to “make a choice” and his “hint about a civilized divorce.”
In this context, Mirzoyan stated that Armenia does not intend to create tensions in Armenia-Russia relations.
“We are partners connected by numerous ties, and we are committed to developing those relations — mutually beneficial relations — in a healthy environment and through healthy discussions.
Are there problems? Of course. But I believe there are problems in all possible relations in the world, and it has always been so. These issues simply require constructive discussion and solutions. Ultimately, all sides must show great respect for the other side’s right to make independent decisions on this or that issue.
We understand very well — and we do not need Russia to tell us — that membership in the EAEU and membership in the EU are incompatible. It is impossible for us to remain in the EAEU and become a member of the EU.
We will continue our rapprochement with the EU, and when the time comes, when the moment matures for us to make a decision at that exact point — whether to be part of this group or that group of countries — we will make that decision. No such decision exists at this moment. We do not need others from outside to tell us this,” the Minister said, adding that Armenia is inclined toward positive, healthy cooperation in all directions, based on mutual respect and mutual benefit.
