The Armenian business community in Russia is deeply concerned about the discussions regarding the possible withdrawal of Armenia from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Samvel Karapetyan, the President of the Armenian Businessmen Association and the Tashir Group of Companies, announced this, commenting on the matters related to Armenia and the EAEU.

"Under conditions of global economic and geopolitical challenges, Armenia's membership in the EAEU is extremely important for the stability of the country's economy, where almost half of the foreign trade goes to the EAEU countries," Karapetyan noted.

He added that despite the "appeal" of the European Union, participation in the EAEU not only contributes to economic growth, but also provides an important level of security, which is extremely important in the current uncertain international situation.

Answering the question about the consequences of the possible severance of Armenia’s relations with the EAEU, Karapetyan pointed out the negative consequences: introduction of customs duties may complicate exports to the other EAEU countries, including Russia, reducing the competitiveness of products. This will also affect the investment environment, considering that Russia is the main investor in Armenia.

Karapetyan noted as well the importance of the labor market. Armenian citizens working in the other EAEU countries benefit from preferential conditions, and leaving this union will complicate the situation for the labor force in Russia, which may lead to a decrease in remittances to Armenia.

Karapetyan paid special attention to the matter of Armenia's energy security. In today's global economy, energy resources play a key role in ensuring sustainable development and stability. This matter is especially topical for Armenia, which experienced an energy crisis in the 1990s. Membership in the EAEU provides more favorable conditions for the supply of energy resources from Russia, which is extremely important for its economy. Karapetyan expressed hope that the Armenian authorities will realize the possible consequences of the steps that could lead Armenia to a crisis again.

"Today, it is extremely important to focus on the security issues of the country, including through increasing economic stability and competitiveness, and not to put political ambitions above economic interests. We can see examples of the consequences of such an approach in the situation in Georgia, where political decisions have negatively affected the country's stability," Samvel Karapetyan emphasized.