Details from the Karapetyan-Shoygu Meeting: What Was Discussed

The Russian Ministry of Defense is ready to support the modernization and reform of the Armenian Armed Forces, said Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu during a meeting with Armenian Defense Minister Arshak Karapetyan in Moscow.

"We highly value the development of our cooperation in the military sphere, both in a bilateral format and within the framework of the CSTO. At the same time, we are ready to continue supporting the implementation of the reform program of the Armenian Armed Forces. This is not an easy task, but I believe it can be achieved with your experience," Shoigu stated.

He noted that the 102nd Russian military base is located in Armenia, well-equipped and a guarantor of security.

"Armenia is Russia's ally and a key partner in ensuring security in the South Caucasus, and we are extremely interested in maintaining stability in this region," the minister added.

In turn, Karapetyan expressed gratitude to Shoigu for his readiness to restore the combat readiness of the Armenian Armed Forces and to re-equip the troops.

He emphasized that his first foreign visit as defense minister was to Russia, which is Armenia’s strategic ally.

"Russia is the only country that delivers tangible results in ensuring the security of the Armenian people and is currently addressing security issues not only in Nagorno-Karabakh but also directly at Armenia's borders. We are ready for very close and effective cooperation," Karapetyan said.