The relations between Armenia and Russia have ancient and deep roots, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Yerevan.

"You noted our bilateral relations, which are also allied, they have ancient and deep roots. There is no need even to go into that history. It's clear for us what it is, what it means for our bilateral relations. And as for today, if last year the trade turnover grew by 19 percent, in the first nine months of this year it increased by 67 percent. Yes, it is related to the peculiarities of today, but it will certainly be a good contribution to the piggy bank for the future as well," the Russian leader noted.

He said he discussed with Pashinyan the unblocking of transport arteries. "When we met, we were driving in the car, discussing regional issues, including the settlement in the region, we talked about the unblocking of transport arteries...I am very glad that there is an opportunity and that there is a bilateral meeting on the margins of today's events as well.

Putin also congratulated Pashinyan on the successful completion of his chairmanship in the Collective Security Treaty Organization.  He noted that Armenia has conducted this work at a very high level. According to him, "it is rare that we manage to agree on all issues, but in general the work has been very intensive and fruitful."