The Attitude towards Russia Depends on its Policy

• 07.01.2015, 16:39
• Anna Karapetyan
•  EEU,  "Insight" Analytical Center

In the context of increase of electricity tariffs in Armenia and the protests against it, some Russian media and experts started claiming that the West has its share in this process. The developing process aimed at enhancing and deepening Armenian-EU dialogue was also mentioned as one of those factors that brought the country to such a situation.

As we know, the EU-Armenia relations went through some obstacles after Armenia announced about its decision to join the Eurasian Economic Union. However, due to appropriate and hard work, Armenia succeeded to explain its Russian and European partners that our country conducts "and...and" policy and does not aim at establishing new dividing lines and contributing to new crisis.

Today a new level of EU-Armenia relations are beginning. As a result of bilateral consultations the main spheres of further cooperation are already agreed and after the adoption of the mandate by the EU a new round of talks will begin. The negotiations will aim at  adjusting a new legal basis of further cooperation.

Among the main spheres of cooperation economic one was also underlined as an important direction. Armenia, as an EEU member, can have a contribution on economic relations of the EU-EEU, especially in the trade. It was repeatedly mentioned that the privileges given to Armenia by the EU (GSP+) can be used also for the companies of other EEU member states who work in Armenia. Armenia can also bring new European investments to the EEU market. So this is a win-win game, and its not built against the interests on any side.

Today Eastern Partnership is being renewed adopting more differentiated approach. The aim is to develop the relations with all partners and also with the EEU members - Belarus and Armenia. Belarus also announced that it is ready to become a platform for developing relations of the EU and the EEU.

So, taking into account the announcements of the EEU and especially Russia that it is important to develop economic dialogue among the EU and the EEU, the relation of the EEU members with the EU, their dialogue must not be perceived with the "black-white" principle and valued as a challenge for the relations of the EEU members.

The attitude towards Russia in Armenia and Armenian society will depend on policy of Russia towards Armenia and only than on external factors.