Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has advised Armenia not to rush toward joining the European Union without first assessing the potential economic consequences.

Axar.az reports, citing Belarusian media, that Lukashenko made the remarks during a meeting with heads of government delegations attending a session of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council.

“If you decide to join the European Union, there is no need to rush it. You have to clearly determine where your cognac, vegetables and fruits will be sold and in what volumes. Will you be able to replace what you sell in our countries today?” Lukashenko said.

“If you are convinced that France will buy your cognac, even though it has plenty of its own, then go ahead. Why are you in such a hurry? Why are you putting the cart before the horse?” he added.