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Economist Tatul Manaseryan notes importance of cooperating with China especially in the light of China-initiated Silk Road project

“It has been for almost a quarter of a century Armenia is being isolated not only from regional projects but also from the Silk Road Project. Our neighboring states have no much desire to see Armenia even on the maps. Armenia may make a breakthrough in the regional programs, creating a serious precedent through conducting a proactive policy with China, making use of Chinese market to the benefit of Armenia’s economic development,” Manaseryan told reporters at a press conference.

According to the speaker, countries, which are not involved in the project [Silk Road project], implement series works in that direction, while Armenia falls short of it.  

“Armenia has observer status with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, yet concrete steps have not been taken up. If we deem to boost dynamic cooperation with our Chinese partners in the market, we should have stores for locally produced products as the goods from Armenia reaches China in no less than 40 days. Our businessmen along with the state should take necessary measures,” Manaseryan noted.

The economist next reflected on the Armenia’s perspective with the Eurasian Economic Union, suggesting our state has low trade with both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, instead relatively high turnover with Belarus. To Manaseryan, Russia appears to be the main trade partner within the organization
The economist pointed out to the sphere of construction in Russian market where Armenian specialized companies may operate: “Armenia could play a role in that market which was previously dominated by Turkish companies. As we see today, Turkish involvement in Russian construction market gradually decreases,” Manaseryan concluded.