MINSK, 19 May (BelTA) - The common energy market with non-discriminatory operating principles should become one of the cornerstones of integration in the Eurasian Economic Union, Armenia Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said as he addressed the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting, BelTA has learned.
“Given the global economic challenges we are facing today, the early formation of the common gas market is particularly relevant for Armenia. As I have been told more than once, a single energy market with non-discriminatory principles of operation should be one of the foundations of our integration. Without it, there can be no qualitative progress in the integration. Without it, it is impossible to ensure a level-playing field for all members of the union,” Nikol Pashinyan said.
He noted that the development of cooperation in the EAEU is very important for Armenia. “I am more than confident that we must strengthen our union and improve the fundamental institutions of integration. We must show their worth during the crisis and be ready to jointly use all economic opportunities which we will obviously have in the post-crisis period” he said.
In his opinion, the Strategic Areas of Eurasian Economic Integration through 2025, which are discussed at today's summit, are of special importance. “We are convinced that the cooperation areas outlined in the document will contribute to the increase of both the intensity and innovative attractiveness of the EAEU, and to the increase of its competitiveness and scientific and production potential,” Nikol Pashinyan said.
He stressed that the document on the strategic areas of economic integration should sets forth the principle of applying unified approaches to price and tariff formation in the EAEU common gas market, including unified tariffs for gas transportation and transit services provided by a natural monopoly entity. “Our union should aim for the gradual achievement of this goal, which will create a fertile ground for deeper economic integration within the EAEU,” the prime minister said.
