Putin says Armenia, Azerbaijan relations have stabilized

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Armenia and Azerbaijan have achieved a stabilization of relations.

Speaking at a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Moscow, Putin praised the contributions of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and US President Donald Trump to the settlement process.

"Incidentally, today, thanks to your efforts and the efforts of the president of Azerbaijan, it seems to me that we managed to achieve a stabilization of relations, and the US president also took an active part in this," he said.

Turning to Armenia's ties with the EU, Putin said Russia remains calm about Yerevan's engagement with Brussels but stressed that membership in two customs unions is not feasible.

"We understand that any country seeks maximum benefits from cooperation with third countries. But it must be obvious, it must be done honestly, in advance — as they say, before setting sail — it must be said: membership in the customs union with the EU and with the EAEU is impossible," he said.

The Russian leader expressed hope that the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the EU could eventually cooperate.

He also highlighted growth in Armenia's trade with EAEU countries, noting exports have increased tenfold in recent years.

"If you look at what is happening with Armenia's economy, I believe you share the same assessment. After all, Armenia's exports to EAEU countries have increased tenfold in recent years," he said.

Putin further noted that trade turnover between Russia and Armenia reached $6.4 billion last year, exceeding the $4.9 billion recorded with Azerbaijan.

"I would like to draw attention to the fact that with the neighboring country, Azerbaijan, it is less than $5 billion — $4.9 billion. This is indicative of something," he said.

He added that Russia supplies gas to Armenia at prices significantly lower than current fuel costs in Europe.

For his part, Pashinyan acknowledged that membership in both blocs is incompatible in principle but said Armenia would pursue both tracks where possible.

On Karabakh, Pashinyan reiterated support for the peace process between Yerevan and Baku.

"Regarding issues related to Karabakh, I have already stated very transparently and publicly, declared in the Republic of Armenia, that we should not continue the Karabakh movement because peace has already been established between Armenia and Azerbaijan," he said.

Pashinyan said both countries recognize each other's territorial integrity based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration, forming a solid basis for lasting peace.