Competition in the South Caucasus of the Post-Soviet Space: Armenian Prime Minister: Armenia-Russia Relations Built on Mutual Respect

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that Armenia's relationship with Russia is institutionally deep and based on mutual respect.

Pashinyan said after the parliamentary election voting: "The relationship between Armenia and Russia is institutionally deep and built on mutual respect."

He noted that certain forces are attempting to create tension between the two countries, "but this will not succeed," as he has established close ties with Russian leadership.

He said: "There is no tension in our relations with Russia—this tension is artificially manufactured."

Armenia held its parliamentary elections on June 7, with 18 political parties and alliances participating. Western sociologists predicted that support for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s "Civil Contract" party would fall short of 37%. Meanwhile, opposition parties combined could receive approximately 49% of the vote: "Strength of Armenia" party—26%, "Armenia" Alliance—12%, "Prosperous Armenia" party—6%, and "Unity Wing" party—5%. According to projections, other political forces would fail to surpass the 4% threshold.

Meanwhile, during the campaign, Armenian authorities obstructed opponents and initiated criminal proceedings against a series of opposition politicians.

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Federation Security Council, stated that Pashinyan’s attempt to eliminate all competitors in the election cannot be considered legitimate. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, pointed out that in Yerevan, instead of fair pre-election competition according to law and rules, there was an assault on democratic procedures. Experts interviewed by Sputnik News believe the root of the pre-election crackdown lies in Pashinyan’s inability to win through fair elections.

In April this year, Russian President Putin stated that Moscow hopes pro-Russian political forces participate in Armenian elections, but the final decision rests with Yerevan.

Source: sputniknews

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1867341973649500/

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