Armenian deputy foreign minister acknowledges issues in ties with Russia

Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Mnatsakan Safaryan has acknowledged that Armenian-Russian relations are undergoing a difficult period, but stressed that both sides remained engaged in ongoing diplomatic dialogue.

“Armenian-Russian relations have a long history. At present, there are certain issues and questions that we are discussing with our Russian partners,” Safaryan told reporters on Saturday. “I would not describe the situation as a crisis. In a world shaped by major geopolitical developments, it is natural for countries to have questions and concerns regarding one another. We are trying to address all these matters through dialogue.”

Safaryan also commented on Russian media reports that Armenian Ambassador to Russia Gurgen Arsenyan had been summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry for what was described as a “tough conversation”.

“That is their characterization,” Safaryan said. “The ambassador was summoned and a diplomatic note was handed over. If necessary, we will respond.”

According to Safaryan, the diplomatic note was connected to the recent EPC summit held in Yerevan, though he declined to disclose the contents of the document.

“At this point, we remain in normal contact with our Russian counterparts,” he added.

Asked separately whether he regretted that Armenia was no longer celebrating the Triple Holiday on May 9, Safaryan declined to elaborate.

“I have already conveyed today’s message. I have nothing further to add,” he said.