Putin in Yerevan and Gyumri: Russian outlook

Sergey Markov, Head of the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Alexander Karavayev, Deputy Director General of the MSU IAC, and Yevgeny Korchevoy, Director of the WTO-Inform Analytical Center, have rounded up Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Armenia.

Markov called it a big step towards strengthening of the alliance and deeper integration within the Customs Union. Lifting customs fees and readiness to sign the road map of Armenia’s joining the Customs Union on December 24 means a close conclusion of negotiations, he believes. Armenia chose the Customs Union after Putin’s visit to Baku and signing a military cooperation agreement.
Karavayev clarified that, for Russia, lifting customs fees for gas, oil and diamonds and reducing gas prices for Armenia to $189 per 1,000 cubic meters had their own geopolitical benefits. Russia has strengthened its presence in Armenia, tying its interests with Russian economic sources. Armenian membership of the Customs Union will make it slightly stronger. Russian influence will spread to Turkey and Iran.
Korchevoy said that the sides had mutual economic interests and benefits. Armenian companies will make business easier in Russia and vice versa. The expert emphasized that the benefits Armenia received will be an example for other countries thinking about joining the Customs Union. He compared Putin’s visit with ‘advertising the Customs Union.’