The geopolitical map of the region is changing again, and this time Yerevan is taking the initiative. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan firmly responded to recent remarks by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who previously stated that "Armenia is needed by no one." In response, Pashinyan made it clear: the era of dependence on a single ally and a single logistical artery is gone forever.

Strategy of a "crossroads" instead of a "dead end"

During a speech in the city of Abovyan, the Prime Minister clearly outlined the country's new development vector. Armenia will no longer put all its eggs in one basket. Pashinyan emphasized that Yerevan is actively developing a diversified network of transport and energy corridors, transforming from an isolated region into a key transit hub.

The list of achievements speaks for itself:

  • The "West-East" railway corridor is operational.
  • The Akhalkalaki-Kars route is open.
  • Railway traffic through Azerbaijan has been launched.
  • The TRIPP energy project is preparing for launch.

Particular emphasis was placed on energy independence. Pashinyan announced the laying of a new gas pipeline through the territory of the republic. This will allow Armenia not only to receive gas through transit but also to monetize this process, receiving fuel as payment for passage.

Response to Lukashenko: "The time of robbery is over"

Relations between Yerevan and Minsk remain tense. Pashinyan did not beat around the bush, stating directly that Armenia has ceased to be a country that can be "robbed" or brought to its knees by economic pressure. According to him, the country has transformed from an economy in the thousands to an economy of billions and trillions.

The Prime Minister also reminded of Lukashenko's role in the events of the 44-day war and accused the Belarusian leader of trying to use the EAEU as a tool of pressure. However, Pashinyan countered these threats: he stated that Armenia not only does not intend to leave the Eurasian Economic Union but will also use its levers of influence within the organization to neutralize Minsk's attempts to harm Yerevan.

"Those who make such statements do not understand that they are digging the grave of the EAEU," the Prime Minister summarized, pointing out that loud words without real levers of influence remain empty rhetoric.

The choice remains with the people

Despite maintaining membership in the EAEU, Pashinyan does not hide his course on reforms according to European standards. He emphasized that the final geopolitical choice is the prerogative of the people of Armenia. The main merit of his government, in the Prime Minister's opinion, is that citizens now have a real alternative. Armenia is no longer a conflict dead end, but a "crossroads of the world," where each side must offer the best terms of cooperation.