Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, who is in Qatar, gave an interview to Al Jazeera Monday, during which he touched upon the processes taking place in the South Caucasus, the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict, Armenian-Turkish relations, and several other topics.

Below is the text of an excerpt from this interview.

What is your position on the war on Ukraine launched by Russia?

Of course, we are very concerned about the situation around Ukraine, but I think all the countries of the world are concerned, because what do we see now? We see the collapse of the international order, and no one knows what the next international order will be like, and of course, we support the solution of all problems through dialogue and peaceful means.

Yes, you say all countries are interested and are following with interest, but you are a bit different, your economy is closely linked to Russia's economy, how will this be reflected, especially as it is subject to strong Western sanctions?

Of course, the situation is not pleasant for us in terms of economy. But to be honest, in the first quarter we registered 8.6% economic growth, we hope we will be able to maintain this dynamic. After the events in Ukraine, many people and businesses have moved from Russia to Armenia because we have a neutral economic zone, and both Armenia and Russia are members of the Eurasian Economic Union. In this situation we hope, I think, we will be able to manage this economic situation. But, of course, not only the economic situation in Russia has directly affected the economy of Armenia, but also the global economic tension related to, for example, food supply, inflation and many other factors. But at the moment the economic indicators of Armenia are quite positive.

Referring to the figures on the Armenian economy, are you in a better position than others? Are you subjected to any pressure, whether from Moscow or from the West, towards alliances or special relations that bind you to Moscow?

I will not deny that the situation of our country and government is quite sensitive, but we try to be a direct, honest and reliable partner for Russia, our European and Western partners, our neighbors. It is not so easy, but I think the leaders are designed for the situations we have now, it is our duty to manage this situation and maintain proper relations with our partners, not to betray anyone.