Armenian envoy in Moscow reaffirms strategic defence ties with Russia

Military-technical cooperation between Armenia and Russia is grounded in historical and geopolitical realities, Armenian Ambassador to Russia Gurgen Arsenyan has said.

Speaking at a ceremonial reception in Moscow marking the 34th anniversary of the Armenian Army, Arsenyan noted that defence ties between the two countries continue to develop on the basis of the 1997 Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media.

“The main component of this cooperation is the centuries-old friendship between our peoples, the historical unity of our countries and the enduring memory of our shared Victory in the Great Patriotic War,” the diplomat stated.

Arsenyan also outlined recent reforms within Armenia’s armed forces. According to him, the army has been equipped with modern, high-quality weaponry, introduced a professional non-commissioned officer (NCO) system, reduced the term of mandatory military service, advanced digitalisation efforts and launched voluntary certification programmes for servicemen.

The reception at the Armenian Embassy in Moscow was held after the official date of Armenia’s Army Day, which is observed on January 28. The event was attended by representatives of Russia’s Foreign Ministry and Defence Ministry, as well as accredited foreign ambassadors and military attachés.

By Vugar Khalilov