Sergey Markedonov’s commentary on signing Armenia-EU agreement

The Armenian government was not afraid to sign Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, but it clearly assessed the situation. Referring to the unexpected decision taken by Armenia on September 3, 2013, Russian political analyst Sergey Markedonov adds that politics is the art of opportunities. “I repeat it once again, clearly assessed, and was not afraid, as no choice arises in a completely abstract situation,” the political scientist says.

Markedonov notes that both in Armenia and in the West people link the failure of that agreement exclusively with Russia. “Of course, I'm not that naive to exclude Russia's pressure and dissatisfaction. A lot was on the line ... However, Armenia is not an absolutely spineless substance to follow exclusively on the course it has set out for,” he underlines.

As for the comprehensive and enhanced partnership agreement, according to Markedonov, the statements of both the Eurasian Economic Commission and the Russian official structures are very restrained and calm. “That is, it is not viewed as a threat or a demonstrative challenge to Russian interests,” he notes. Find the details of the conversation in the program “Paradigm”.