How Will Russia and Iran Perceive Military Cooperation with France?

“When we talk about obligations, we must consider them mutually.” This was stated by Armenia’s Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan, addressing the question of how Russia and Iran will perceive military cooperation with France.

The Minister recalled the events in September 2022, when the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched military aggression and occupied parts of Armenian territory. “It is after these events that Armenia has set the task of diversifying its military-technical cooperation. It is Armenia’s sovereign right, and Armenia is entitled to decide with whom and to what extent to cooperate. This stems from the interests of the Armenian people and statehood,” he stated.

According to Papikyan, Armenia has the right to cooperate with both France and Iran. “This must be acknowledged by everyone. Our French partners respect our cooperation with other partners. Our Iranian partners respect cooperation with other partners as well. I believe the same should be done by our Russian partners,” he emphasized.

Papikyan noted that Armenia has no taboos on cooperation. Subsequently, addressing the replenishment of air defense systems, he mentioned that it concerns Armenia’s own air defense capability and the security of its skies. He stated that they are not purchasing weapons for any partner, friend, or ally.