Armenia retains its rights and obligations in the CSTO: Maria Zakharova

Armenia remains a full member of the CSTO, retaining all its rights and obligations, Maria Zakharova, official spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry, said in an interview with RIA Novosti.

“Armenia has been refraining from participation in CSTO-format events for more than two years, while remaining a full member, retaining all corresponding rights and obligations,” Zakharova said.

Meanwhile, the Armenian parliament passed a law in March to begin the process of EU accession, and in April the document was signed by President Vahagn Khachaturyan. Russian President Vladimir Putin, at a meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, noted that simultaneous participation in a customs union with the EU and the EAEU is impossible. Experts warn that upon leaving the EAEU, Armenia risks losing trade preferences, in particular, a unified low tariff rate of 5% and the right to duty-free import of a number of goods.