We Have Agreed to Move Forward on Armored Ambulances for Armenia: U.S. Ambassador

The United States and Armenia are engaged in very active and meaningful discussions about security and defense, which remains an ongoing theme, stated U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Quinn during an interview with "Azatutyun."

"Last week, we were both in Brussels, where Armenia's Western partners promised additional financial support, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening Armenia's economy and democracy. Is there any agreement signed to ensure that this support will be continuous, regardless of how the elections expected in Brussels and the U.S. in a few months end?"

Kristina Quinn replied, "The agreement was that we simply continue our very good and growing dialogue. I can say that in the past year since I arrived in Armenia, our relations have expanded and deepened in almost every sector. And I think that everything we emphasized at the high-level meeting in Brussels just shows the progress we have made, especially in recent years. And I believe we will continue to make progress in the near future."

"Azatutyun" followed up, asking, "So, you think that will be the case, but there is no agreement on that issue?"

Quinn responded, "Well, we agreed to continue the discussions on all these issues. So from that perspective, of course, we will continue the conversation."

"Azatutyun" also inquired, "I was told in Brussels that the United States is considering joining the EU monitoring mission at Armenia's border, as the Canadians did last year. Can you confirm this information; are there such discussions?"

Quinn stated, "No, at this point we do not have such a plan, but of course we are not ruling anything out for the future."

"Since the main issue on the agenda of the Brussels meeting was raising Armenia’s resilience, I would like to delve a little deeper into this topic. According to recent surveys, security is the most pressing issue for Armenians, and we saw that France has strengthened its military cooperation with Armenia by supplying armaments despite hurdles. Will the United States follow France's example?"

Quinn responded, "I would say the United States and Armenia are having very active and meaningful discussions about security and defense. This is also an ongoing topic, and I believe we have had significant expansion on this topic in the last year. Just a few examples: last year we conducted our first joint military exercises since 2008. I think this is a very important signal that the United States and Armenia can work together in the defense sector, and we are also looking for additional ways to continue that work. We will also have an advisor who can come and sit with the Armenian Ministry of Defense to assist in capacity development, especially since Armenia is interested in expanding its participation in areas such as peacekeeping and other peace initiatives. We want to be helpful, and we will work both on internal reforms on how the Armenian Ministry of Defense can meet modern standards and on what more can be done in the peacekeeping sphere."

In conclusion, "Azatutyun" asked, "But at this moment, as I understand it, there are no discussions about supplying weapons and ammunition?"

Quinn replied, "In fact, we have ongoing discussions about what Armenia may need in the military sector. We have already agreed on several things. One specific agreement I can point out is that Armenia requested armored ambulances that can enter conflict areas, ensuring the safety of the individuals transported in those vehicles. We have already agreed to move forward on this matter, and we are now working on the implementation methods to provide that assistance. And, as I noted, we are discussing a variety of topics and trying to see where we can be helpful to Armenia in its defense."