Makarian: Decision about entry into Customs Union was made in Moscow

‘The decision about Armenia’s entry into the Customs Union was made in Moscow, over a very short period of time,” Chairman of the Union of Employers of Armenia Gagik Makarian said at a meeting with reporters today. 

In his words, thanks to Armenia’s joining the Customs Union, Russia has received a political card as – in case of a commodity turnover of $1 billion - the economic factor did not play an important part.

“The point here is related to politics. Russia lost Afghanistan, its role in Iraq and possibly in Syria so Russia’s desire to see Armenia as a member of the Customs Union should be considered in that context,” Makarian said.

According to him, a discussion with the participation of representatives of the Customs Union was held at Armenian Ministry of Economy yesterday.

The economist realized that the Customs Union is currently being formed by people who have Soviet-era ideology and work style. “You could feel the spirit of the USSR ,” Makarian said. At the same time he expressed hope that after joining the Customs Union, Armenia will derive both short-term and long-term benefits.