Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) should create new opportunities for Armenia to foster more favorable public opinion toward the union.

Pashinyan was asked by Russian media outlet Izvestia about the possibility of having to choose between EU integration and remaining a member of the EAEU, as well as the recent declaration by other EAEU leaders calling on Armenia to hold a referendum on the matter, The Caspian Post reports, citing Armenpress.

The Prime Minister noted that a referendum on Armenia’s accession to the European Union could be held only if Armenia formally applies to the EU or comes very close to obtaining candidate status.

“As long as Armenia has not officially applied to the European Union for full membership, there will be no referendum. As soon as that happens, the referendum will take place,” he said.

Referring to the statement adopted by the leaders of four EAEU member states, Pashinyan described it as a “very balanced text.”

“I have read it. It is a very balanced text. In fact, our partners from the four countries support the idea of holding a referendum in Armenia on Armenia’s decision,” the Prime Minister said.

When asked whether Armenia sees the advantages of the Eurasian Economic Union, Pashinyan responded that such advantages are obvious, but that the union should also create new opportunities.

“Of course, we understand that. But I believe that in this case the EAEU should show new opportunities, open new opportunities, so that the image of the EAEU in the Republic of Armenia grows rather than the opposite,” he noted.

Pashinyan warned that certain restrictions have the opposite effect and create a negative perception of the EAEU among Armenian citizens.

“If some restrictions are applied, this creates a negative perception of the EAEU among citizens of Armenia. This concerns me,” Pashinyan said.

“For me, it is also a responsibility that the EAEU has a positive image in the Republic of Armenia, but certain decisions do not contribute to that. However, I am confident that we will solve all the problems,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan earlier responded to fellow EAEU leaders, saying there is no need at this point to hold a referendum on whether to exit the Eurasian bloc and pursue EU integration.