Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has stated that the presence of Russia’s 102nd military base in his country is not considered a vital necessity. Speaking at a press briefing in Yerevan, Pashinyan addressed his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which took place in Bishkek on September 1 on the sidelines of the SCO summit.
Pashinyan clarified that his government has not formally raised the issue of the Russian military base with Moscow during this period. He emphasized that the Armenian administration would not oppose a potential withdrawal if Russia decided to leave the territory. The Prime Minister noted that the continued presence of the base has not been a point of contention in their discussions.
During their meeting in Bishkek, the two leaders also discussed the future of Armenia’s railway infrastructure. Pashinyan suggested that transferring Russia’s rights under a concession agreement for the railway to a third country would be the most favorable option for Yerevan. President Putin responded by stating that future investment in the railway would be contingent upon freight traffic, suggesting that opening new routes could create cargo flows and make further development economically viable.
Addressing the broader question of the Russian military presence, President Putin maintained that the base's status is ultimately a sovereign decision for Armenia. He stated that if Armenia determines the base is no longer needed, Russia would leave immediately, noting that Moscow does not intend to impose its presence on anyone. Putin added, however, that Russia is prepared to remain and continue its cooperation if the Armenian population desires the ongoing military presence.
Meanwhile, the government of Armenia has been actively pursuing closer regional ties. This includes efforts to normalize relations with Türkiye and Azerbaijan while simultaneously seeking deeper integration with the European Union. Yerevan has expressed a desire to establish formal diplomatic relations with Ankara, reopen the land border, and expand regional connectivity.
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