Russian and Armenian people have common values and centuries-old traditions — Samvel Karapetyan

Besides economy, there is another important aspect that Armenia should not ignore—its cultural ties with Russia, Samvel Karapetyan, the president of Tashir Group of Companies, said during the Armenian Businessmen Association meeting in Moscow on April 12.

“Our peoples share common values, centuries-old traditions of friendship and cooperation. Millions of Armenians live and work in Russia, contributing to the development of the two countries. And Russia remains the main country for the Armenian Diaspora abroad. In conclusion, I would like to note that the membership of the EAEU does not hinder the development of partnership relations with other countries and associations. Cooperation with the EU is possible and necessary.

However, this should not come at the expense of our EAEU membership. We can and should continue to deepen cooperation with the EU within the framework of existing agreements, without jeopardizing our strategic interests and economic stability. I call on you to carefully assess all the nuances related to the possible change of Armenia’s foreign economic policy. Our future and prosperity directly depend on balanced and well-considered decisions based on real economic indicators and Armenia’s interests. I firmly believe that we must choose the path of Armenia’s development based not on emotions and beautiful promises, but on figures and facts. We cannot afford another decade of experimentation. Our choice must be balanced, precise and accurate—a choice that will yield results today and lay a solid foundation for the country’s future,” he concluded.