We Are Not Entering Competition with Azerbaijan, Says Papikyan

During today's press conference, Armenian Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan addressed the military balance between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

"We are not entering into competition with any country, including Azerbaijan. It is evident that the budgets and capabilities of the two countries are incomparable, with all the ensuing consequences. This is exactly why we propose that if we want long-term regional peace, we must also have mechanisms for arms control," he stated.

Referring to the territories occupied by Armenia, he noted, "The Armenian military-political leadership has decided that the approximately 200 km² of Armenian-occupied territory, which includes the heights near Jermuk, should be resolved through negotiations. This issue has been referred to the commission on delimitation, demarcation, and border security."