Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said the government has formally applied to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a security and economic bloc dominated by China, Russia and several Central Asian countries. Pashinyan announced the step on 16 July, marking the first time Yerevan has sought entry into the group. The initiative underscores Armenia’s effort to broaden its foreign-policy options amid strained relations with traditional ally Russia. Pashinyan, who has repeatedly criticized Moscow for what he views as insufficient support during recent clashes with Azerbaijan, also commented on the prospect of Armenia leaving the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization, although he did not provide a timetable.