All Personnel at the Ministry of Defense Are in Their Place: Papikyan

The deputy of the parliamentary faction "Honorary Title," Tigran Abrahamyan, inquired from the Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan about the reasons behind the changes in the General Staff.

“Don’t you think that in the current situation in the Eurasian region, such significant changes in the General Staff considerably increase the threats that are also transmitted to our region, especially since there is currently no military leader in the position of Chief of General Staff, and we only have an acting officer? What are the reasons for such drastic changes in such a deep crisis? If the Chief of General Staff has suffered a major failure or committed such a serious crime that they haven’t been able to extend their term for even one month, please provide some clarifications,” stated Tigran Abrahamyan while addressing Suren Papikyan.

Suren Papikyan responded by asserting that if they only follow the events and changes occurring in the region and the world, it might be possible not to make any changes at all. The developments in recent years have been such that events occur which cannot be predetermined, but at the same time, reforms are necessary and are overdue.

“And today we cannot delay; we do not have the right to delay. We have entered a very important period of reform, and I am confident that it has long been time to trust and provide opportunities to our many capable and young personnel who have gone through the crucible of war in the defense sector. I do not want to link this to individuals, but at the same time, I cannot say that everything depends on individuals,” announced Papikyan.

According to him, all personnel at the Ministry of Defense are in their place, and the institution of acting officer gives him all the legal grounds to make decisions, issue instructions, and orders.

“I believe that we have not brought any danger with this move and we do not intend to. Moreover, everything is aimed at having a more motivated command as soon as possible, and this is a signal to all officers under the jurisdiction of the defense sector: all deserving officers will have the opportunity to take high positions, regardless of their acquaintances, friends, or other connections,” emphasized Papikyan.