Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the potential of a payment system that uses the Eurasian Economic Union’s (EAEU) own currencies, calling it promising for a wide range of countries. His remarks, carried by TASS, underscored a growing interest in currency-based payment rails that could act as a hub connecting multiple economies.
Putin noted that many governments and financial operators are exploring how a currency-denominated payment framework could streamline cross-border settlements and reduce reliance on traditional, dollar-dominated channels. He suggested that such a system could serve as reliable infrastructure for numerous partners trading in the region and beyond.
During a meeting with Bakytzhan Sagintayev, the chairman of the Eurasian Economic Commission board, Putin expressed optimism that this vision can be realized. The dialogue focused on practical steps to advance a multilateral, currency-based payment ecosystem that supports trade, investment, and financial cooperation across the EAEU and its partners.
In the same gathering, officials announced that the anniversary summit of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is set to take place in Moscow on May 8, 2024. The planned gathering is expected to review progress on integration efforts and chart new directions for regional collaboration, with emphasis on infrastructure, digital finance, and regional stability.
Separately, Armenia signaled its intent to continue exercising presidential functions within the EAEU governance bodies, despite the country’s decision to join the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Vagharshak Hakobyan, deputy chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on regional issues and Eurasian integration, reiterated Armenia’s commitment to active participation in EAEU affairs while navigating international legal commitments.
Earlier discussions in Armenia had pointed to concerns about potential risks associated with EAEU membership and the balance between national sovereignty and regional integration. Analysts note that Armenia’s stance reflects a broader debate within the union about member-state autonomy, rule of law instruments, and the pace of economic integration across member economies.