**Armenia Takes Step Towards EU Membership**
In a significant move, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan has signed a law that marks the beginning of the country’s accession process to the European Union. This development is a clear indication of Armenia’s desire for closer ties with Europe, but it doesn’t mean immediate membership.
The parliament passed the bill on March 26 after collecting a whopping 60,000 signatures from citizens who wanted EU integration. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that this process needs to be approved by the people in a referendum before it can move forward. This shows that the government is committed to engaging with its citizens and ensuring that they have a say in the country’s future.
However, not everyone is pleased with Armenia’s decision. Russia has issued a warning, stating that a country cannot be part of both the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The EAEU is led by Russia and includes countries like Belarus and Kazakhstan. This tension between Armenia and Russia comes after a conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh last year, which has strained their relationship.
**A Shift Away from Russia**
Armenia’s move towards the EU is also seen as a step away from its traditional ally, Russia. The country’s relationship with Russia has become increasingly tense since Azerbaijan took control of Nagorno-Karabakh. This development has prompted the European Parliament to urge the EU to deepen ties with Armenia last year, citing that the country meets the requirements for membership.
This shift towards Europe is a significant one, and it raises questions about Armenia’s future alliances. Will the country be able to balance its relationships with both Russia and the EU? Or will this move towards Europe lead to a complete distancing from Russia?
**A Long Road Ahead**
While this step towards EU membership is significant, full membership remains uncertain. The accession process is long and complex, and it will require Armenia to make significant changes to its laws and institutions. Moreover, the country will need to meet the strict criteria set by the European Union, which includes human rights, democratic standards, and economic requirements.
As Armenia embarks on this journey towards EU membership, one thing is clear: the country’s future is no longer solely tied to Russia. The path ahead will be challenging, but it also presents opportunities for growth and development. Will Armenia succeed in its bid to join the European Union? Only time will tell.