Armenia Says CSTO Withdrawal Not on the Agenda, Seeks Limited Engagement

Armenia is not currently considering leaving the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Deputy Foreign Minister Mnatsakan Safaryan stated, emphasizing that Yerevan's approach is to avoid active participation in the bloc's activities while refraining from blocking its decisions.

Speaking to reporters, Safaryan said on Wednesday that Armenia's stance "has already been declared," noting that while the country does not currently take part in CSTO work, it does not oppose the adoption of documents agreed upon by other members, The Caspian Post reports citing TRT World.

“Armenia conducts its foreign policy based on interests, according to the situation that is created. Armenia’s balancing policy has been announced, and Armenia makes decisions within that framework,” he said, as quoted by the state-run Armenpress news agency.

Asked why Armenia continues to remain in the CSTO despite its non-participation, Safaryan responded: “That’s the policy at this stage. If there are additional positions or steps, we will inform you about it.”

He also said that the Foreign Ministry has not been tasked with preparing a withdrawal, adding, “Such a task has not been put before us yet. If such developments occur, everyone will know.”

Armenia earlier announced that it would not attend the CSTO summit scheduled in Kyrgyzstan on November 27, though Yerevan said it is not opposed to the approval of the documents expected at the meeting.