Pashinyan: I Participated in Erdogan’s Inauguration Because I Received an Invitation, but I Did Not Receive an Invitation From Putin

In a press conference held on May 7, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that he participated in Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's inauguration ceremony in June 2023 because he received a formal invitation from the Turkish leader. However, he did not receive a similar invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the Russian leader's inauguration, which took place today.

Pashinyan emphasized the importance of the press conference. "Today's conversation is no less important for me, because obviously we are discussing very important issues," he stated, underlining the value he places on international dialogues.

Reflecting on another event, Pashinyan mentioned that he participated in the Victory Day anniversary parade in Moscow on May 9 last year. He expressed his view that it is not necessary for him to attend this event every year. "I don't think I need to participate every year," he said, also pointing out that it is uncommon for Armenian leaders or leaders from other countries to attend the event annually. He raised a rhetorical question to emphasize his point: "Wouldn't it seem strange to you if the leader of Armenia attended the May 9 military parade every year?"

Looking ahead, Pashinyan highlighted his upcoming role as the chair of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting, scheduled for Wednesday in Moscow. He explained that his presence there is mandatory and forms part of his official duties. "I have to be there de jure, and it is part of my work," he remarked, connecting this responsibility back to the broader context of his work, including the press conference.