Armenia considers seeking EU membership, which would be considered 'with interest'

Armenia is exploring the possibility of formally applying for membership in the European Union, a move that signals a significant geopolitical shift for the South Caucasus nation. The EU has responded positively, with the European Commission stating it would consider such a request "with interest."

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan indicated that his country might soon submit an official application to join the 27-member bloc. This potential accession bid comes as Armenia seeks to deepen its ties with Western countries and reduce its traditional reliance on Russia. The EU's spokesperson, Paula Pinho, affirmed that Yerevan's interest in joining the bloc is "a new expression of the attraction that the EU exerts on citizens."

Russia, which views the former Soviet republic as part of its sphere of influence, has reacted coolly to Armenia's European aspirations. Moscow has insisted that Armenia should first hold a referendum on EU membership, arguing that it is incompatible with Armenia's continued participation in the Eurasian Economic Union, a common economic alliance with Russia. Pashinyan countered that a referendum would only be meaningful once the feasibility of EU accession could be assessed, which requires first submitting an application.

The shift towards Europe has already strained Armenia's relations with Moscow, leading to retaliatory measures from Russia, including a ban on Armenian agricultural imports. This diplomatic maneuvering highlights Armenia's efforts to balance its strategic interests amidst complex regional dynamics.