YEREVAN. – The process of formation of the Customs Union was launched back in 1994, Armenian political scientist, ex-presidential candidate Andreas Ghukasyan stated at a press conference on Tuesday.

In Ghukasyan’s words, Armenia did not participate in the formation of this union, even as an observer.

“Consequently, [Armenian President] Serzh Sargsyan’s announcement in September [that Armenia plans to join the Russian-led Customs Union] was a surprise to everyone.

“Applying the Customs Union duties in Armenia is absurd for us. All Customs Union documents are open.

“In my view, neither the Customs Union needs Armenia, nor Armenia [needs] the Customs Union,” the political scientist maintained.    

The former presidential candidate added that a task has been set to validate these documents no later than May 2014.

In his words, however, if Armenia is preparing to become a Customs Union member by May, why are Armenia and Russia signing a natural gas deal, which implies export duties, in December of this year.

“There is a contradiction, and we see that the [Armenian] ruling party is unable to give an explanation,” Andreas Ghukasyan said.       

Photo by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.am