Overchuk says despite Pashinyan’s assurances Russian businesses face risks in Armenia

Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has stated that there are no threats to Russian businesses operating in the country, but the facts suggest otherwise, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk stated.

In an interview with TASS, Overchuk noted that Yerevan’s official assurances contradict developments on the ground.

“Last summer, we asked the Prime Minister of Armenia a direct question about the prospects for Russian investors. We received a clear and unequivocal response: nothing threatens Russian business in Armenia. However, the facts indicate otherwise. We are being told one thing, while in reality something entirely different is taking place,” he said.

Overchuk pointed to specific cases, stating that the property rights of a Russian businessman involved in the purchase and retail sale of electricity had been violated. He also added that a Russian state-owned company has recently been asked to sell its concession.

As Overchuk emphasized, Moscow is aware that, alongside pro-Western groups, there are also actors within Armenia who seek to reduce ties with Russia and push Russian businesses out of the republic․