Russian business feels comfortable in Armenia, and the matter of Yerevan's European integration does not affect the Russians. This was stated by Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan during a panel discussion on the margins of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum—and commenting on his Russian counterpart Alexey Overchuk’s statement that Armenia's rapprochement with the European Union (EU) countries negatively affects its collaboration with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

And, according to Overchuk, Russia can no longer ignore the changes taking place in Armenia from the point of view of the regulations being accepted there. He had predicted a decline in trade between Armenia and Russia to $6 billion, and recalled the law which Armenia passed in March on the launch of its EU membership process.

Grigoryan emphasized that Armenia is also very serious about the matter of European integration, and there is no symbolism in it.

"But at the same time, I believe that we have indicators that we need to constantly address. I believe that regardless of our legal structure related to this matter, the Russians feel great in Armenia. We [i.e. Armenia] are proud of that. This means that at least there is no dramatism yet at the level of people. Russian business feels very comfortable in Armenia. Of course, problematic issues arise, and they are regularly discussed, including with Russian partners," said the deputy premier of Armenia.