Armenia is set to gain tariff-free access to the European Union market for its agricultural products, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced, describing EU countries as emerging export destinations for Armenian goods.

Speaking about recent talks with Brussels, Pashinyan said Armenian agricultural exports would be able to enter the EU under a free customs regime, a move that could significantly expand opportunities for local producers, The Caspian Post reports via RBC.

Pashinyan also revealed that Ursula von der Leyen had informed him during a phone call that the EU would provide €50 million in emergency assistance to help offset export-related challenges affecting Armenian agricultural and other products.

He also noted that the support package is designed to ease pressures on sectors impacted by recent trade disruptions and to strengthen Armenia’s access to European markets.

Following her conversation with Pashinyan on June 4, von der Leyen said the European Union stands in solidarity with Armenia and is preparing measures to simplify trade procedures for selected Armenian goods, particularly agri-food products.

The package is also expected to provide targeted assistance to industries affected by export restrictions, including Armenia’s flower sector.

The announcement follows a series of restrictions imposed by Russia on several Armenian exports, including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, leafy greens, strawberries and flower products. Russian authorities have also suspended imports of certain Armenian alcoholic beverages and the mineral water brand Jermuk over regulatory concerns.

The trade developments come as Armenia has accelerated cooperation with the EU while remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously argued that membership in both integration projects is incompatible, while Pashinyan has stated that Armenia is not considering leaving the EAEU.

Earlier this year, Armenia’s government approved a draft law supporting closer European integration. Pashinyan has said that any future decision to seek EU membership could eventually be put to a national referendum, although he acknowledges that Armenia is not yet ready to join the bloc.