Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that Armenia has demonstrated that it is an important regional partner rather than a country with limited geopolitical options, arguing that recent developments have created alternatives that did not previously exist for Yerevan.

Speaking at a press briefing, Pashinyan criticized what he described as a longstanding perception among some members of the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) that Armenia had no choice but to remain dependent on the bloc because of its conflicts with Azerbaijan and Turkey.

According to Pashinyan, this view was based on the assumption that Armenia's regional disputes left it isolated and without viable alternatives. He declared that recent changes in the region have challenged that perception. “We have proved that Armenia is not a province, but a crossroads," Pashinyan said, adding that Armenia has proven itself to be an important partner to many countries and a significant state in the South Caucasus.

The recent remarks were made as Russia continued to press Armenia to define its long-term position between the EAEU and the European Union. Pashinyan reiterated that any decision on possible EU membership would ultimately be made through a referendum, but stressed that such a vote could only take place after institutional preparations are completed and Armenia formally applies for EU membership. "Before alternatives emerge, we need both the EU and the EAEU equally," adding that other options could also be considered in the future, including approaches that do not involve membership in either bloc.

Pashinyan also addressed the future of Armenia's railway network, which has been operated since 2008 under a concession held by South Caucasus Railway, a subsidiary of Russian Railways.

He said the Armenian government is seeking a solution that would reduce Russian control over the railway system without terminating the concession agreement. Among the options under consideration are the partial sale of concession rights or changes to the ownership and management structure.

The railway issue has gained importance as Armenia seeks to expand regional connectivity and reopen transport links with neighboring countries, especially as part of broader efforts to normalize relations in the South Caucasus.