Matviyenko: Armenia’s decision on the EAEU will not affect the bloc’s stability

Yerevan stands to lose a great deal if it decides to withdraw from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko made the remarks, TASS reports.

“Ultimately, it is Armenia’s sovereign right to decide whether or not to remain a member of the CSTO. I believe that if it chooses to leave, Armenia will lose a great deal,” she stressed.

Matviyenko said that Yerevan cannot join the European Union while simultaneously remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as membership in the two blocs is incompatible.

“All the leaders speak openly and frankly about this: Armenia will have to make a choice. We would also, of course, like that choice to be made by the Armenian people,” she said.

Matviyenko stressed that whatever decision Armenia makes regarding its membership in the EAEU, it will have no impact on the stability of the bloc.