SPIEF 2025: Armenian Deputy PM rejects Russian counterpart’s EU-related concerns

Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan has rejected his Russian counterpart Alexey Overchuk’s assertion at SPIEF 2025 that Armenia’s deepening ties with the EU are undermining cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU).

Grigoryan emphasized that Russian businesses are “very comfortable” operating in Armenia—and that Yerevan’s pursuit of EU integration has had no adverse effect on this environment. He underscored Armenia’s serious approach to EU integration, dismissing any notion of mere symbolism.

“I think regardless of our legal structure the Russians feel wonderful in Armenia. We are proud of that. We have tourism growth. This means that there is no dramatism at least on the people’s level. Russian business feels very comfortable in Armenia. I am speaking not only about Armenian–Russian joint enterprises but also those based solely on Russian capital. Of course, contentious issues emerge, and these are regularly discussed, including with Russian partners,” Grigoryan said, stressing the importance of economic indicators for Armenia.

Deputy PM Grigoryan reassured that Russia has no reason to worry about Armenia’s closer alignment with the EU.

In contrast, Overchuk—speaking on the same panel—warned that Russia cannot "ignore" the "changes" in Armenia. He suggested that Armenia–Russia trade may decline due to the EU bill.