Politics
"Armenia decides with whom and to what degree of cooperation." Papikyan
Armenia's Defense Minister, Suren Papikyan, referring to how Russia and Iran will perceive military cooperation with France, said: "When we talk about obligations, we have to consider both sides."
Papikyan recalled the events of September 2022, when the Azerbaijani Armed Forces resorted to military aggression and occupied a part of the territory of Armenia. "It was after those events that Armenia set the task of diversifying its military-technical cooperation. It is the sovereign right of Armenia, and Armenia has the right to decide with whom and to what degree of cooperation. This comes from the interests of the Armenian people and statehood," he said.
Papikyan also noted that it is Armenia's right to cooperate with France and Iran. "It should be known to everyone. Our French partners respect our cooperation with other partners. Iranian partners respect cooperation with other partners. I think our Russian partners should do the same."
Papikyan emphasized that Armenia has no taboos about cooperating.
Regarding replenishing the air defense system, Papikyan said that it is about having Armenia's own anti-aircraft defense and ensuring the security of the skies. "We do not buy weapons for any partner, friend, or ally."
