Difficulties in Russian-Armenian relations are temporary, says Russian FM

The difficulties in Russian-Armenian relations are temporary and will be resolved if there is will, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in an exclusive interview with TASS.

“We are convinced that all difficulties [in relations between Russia and Armenia] are temporary and will be resolved if there is political will,” he said.

According to the Russian FM, “it is the sustainable and systematic development of Russian-Armenian relations that meets the core interests of the peoples of the two states, which share common values and a common cultural code.”

“Trade and economic ties as well as industry dialogue between Moscow and Yerevan are developing at an impressive rate. This is the foundation for the relations between the two countries, as well as the most important support for the stability of the Armenian economy and the welfare of the Armenian population,” Lavrov said.

He stressed that the rapid growth of Armenia’s GDP in recent years “is largely caused by the cooperation with Russia and Armenia’s membership in the Eurasian Economic Union.”

“Next year, Armenia will be the chair of the EAEU. We wish our colleagues success,” said the Russian FM.

Lavrov also noted that Yerevan, swayed by the West, is trying to replace the alliance with Moscow with vague promises.

“Unfortunately, official Yerevan, having succumbed to the West’s persuasions, is trying to reshape its foreign policy. It is changing the time-tested alliance with Moscow, not even for specific assistance from the West, but only for vague promises,” Lavrov said.

“In order to justify the strategic turnaround, they are trying to blame Russia for all the problems of the republic, including the loss of Karabakh. We have repeatedly voiced Russia’s concerns publicly; it makes no sense right now to list again the unfriendly steps of Armenian authorities,” Lavrov added.

The Russian FM noted that Armenia has been and remains Russia’s strategic partner in the South Caucasus.