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Armenia has formally submitted an application to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

"Yes, we have applied for SCO membership. This aligns with our policy of balancing and equilibrium," stated Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during a press conference in Yerevan on Wednesday, July 16.

He further clarified that Armenia already holds observer status within the SCO. "In other words, it's not as if we are starting from scratch, having no voice there, and suddenly deciding to become a member of the organization," Pashinyan explained. He also noted that the Armenian authorities' decision is linked to "significant and structural changes occurring within the organization," as the "question of abolishing observer or associated member status" within the SCO is currently under discussion.

Earlier, the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had indicated the country's desire to become an SCO member. The ministry's statement affirmed, "Sharing the fundamental principles of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, namely territorial integrity, non-use of force, and inviolability of borders, the Republic of Armenia has expressed its desire to become a member of the SCO".

ORIENT

Photo: president.am