We follow the economic numbers, but it is important for us not only to look at the comparisons, we hope that these principles are followed. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced this Thursday during the joint news conference with visiting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Berlin, referring to the remark that Armenia's trade with Russia has increased, which may be part of circumventing sanctions against Russia.

Pashinyan also addressed this issue, stating: "Of course, according to our practice, as a democratic country for which transparency is very important, we have told all our Western partners and keep telling them that we are transparent in this matter. Yes, the numbers are changing, they are changing all over the world because the logistics chains, the relationships are changing. Not only the imports from the EU to Armenia have increased, but also the exports of Armenia to the EU countries because we are interested in establishing relations with the EU.

As for talk of circumventing sanctions, they are nothing but talk, the reality is just the opposite. Last spring, a western owner took an aircraft used by one of the Russian airlines from Armenia. I think this is a direct example when we have shown that respecting all our partners, the legality of actions and activities is of fundamental importance."

Pashinyan does not think that a country with such a case can be blamed for any other shady circumstances. On the other hand, the Prime Minister emphasized that they will follow the events with all their attention to help the private sector not to engage in such activities that could spoil Armenia's relations with any partner.