Gazprom has not raised the issue of increasing gas prices, Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Minister Davit Khudatyan said during a Civil Contract campaign meeting in Verin Artashat.

Khudatyan, speaking as the head of the relevant ministry, insisted that the authorities had no information regarding any gas price increase, according to RFE/RL.

Media reports have circulated claiming that Gazprom had approached the Armenian government regarding gas pricing.

Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier stated that it would be appropriate for Armenian citizens if Yerevan clarified its position on joining the European Union. Putin said Armenia’s plans regarding EU membership “require special discussion.”

He also noted that Armenia currently receives gas at a preferential price of $177.5, while gas prices in Europe reach and sometimes exceed $600 per 1,000 cubic meters.