Armenia is not yet ready for candidate status for European Union membership.

Axar.az reports that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan made the statement regarding Armenia’s potential EU path and a possible referendum on leaving the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Speaking to journalists, he said a referendum on EAEU withdrawal would only take place if there is a clear basis for it, such as Armenia formally applying for EU membership or obtaining candidate status.

“Neither of these currently exists, because objectively we are not ready. We need reforms,” he said.

Pashinyan also stated that Armenia cannot be deprived of EAEU membership, noting that all decisions within the bloc are made by consensus, giving Armenia veto power.