Mirzoyan questions spirit of partnership in possible Russian gas price hike

The issue of a possible unilateral increase in the price of gas by the Russian side should be considered within the broader framework of Armenian-Russian economic and strategic relations, Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ararat Mirzoyan has said.

The minister questioned to what extent such a move would be in the spirit of partnership and reflect the relations between the two countries.

“Losses, certainly. If the Russian side suddenly decides to unilaterally raise the price of gas, I don’t know to what extent that would be in the spirit of partnership and reflect our relations with Russia,” the minister said in response to a question about the consequences of a possible increase in gas prices.

The FM also emphasized that relations between Armenia and Russia are not limited to the price of gas. He referred to various areas of cooperation and assets of strategic importance, suggesting that any potential discussion be held within the framework of the relationship as a whole.

“There are many factors in Armenia-Russia economic and strategic relations. To take one component — the price of gas... I suggest that if we look at it this way, perhaps we should discuss the whole picture across the entire spectrum, think it over, make decisions, and understand,” Mirzoyan said.

According to him, there is already a preliminary understanding that the sides should sit down together and take stock of their existing relations and the components of their cooperation.

Discussions about a possible increase in gas prices followed a report presented on October 20 on the potential consequences of suspending the application of the EAEU Treaty to Armenia. According to the report, under such a scenario, the price of gas imports to Armenia could rise from $177.5 to $300 per 1,000 cubic meters, an increase of around 69%.