Lavrov: Russia remains Armenia’s reliable security guarantor

Russia is fully prepared to support the protection, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during an expanded meeting with his Armenian counterpart in Yerevan.

Lavrov emphasised the value Russia places on its allied relations with Armenia and the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, Caliber.Az reports per Armenian media.

He noted that a substantial foundation has already been laid across various areas of bilateral cooperation, which should be utilised to the fullest and most strategic extent.

“We continue to view the security sphere as one of the key dimensions of our alliance. We stand ready to assist in every possible way to safeguard Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the Russian foreign minister stated.

Lavrov highlighted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the agreement on the deployment of a Russian military base in Armenia, as well as the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Russian-Armenian Humanitarian Response Centre. He reiterated that Russia remains a dependable guarantor of Armenia’s energy and food security, and that the corresponding agreements remain fully in effect. He also noted that the consistent work of the intergovernmental commission provides direction for both government bodies and businesses in the two countries.

“Last year’s results were impressive, and we should build on them as we move towards further expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. Russia remains Armenia’s main trade partner and leading investor,” he added.

Lavrov also remarked that the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is becoming increasingly effective and self-sufficient, demonstrating resilience and efficiency against the backdrop of global market volatility. He underscored the importance of boosting cooperation within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

“Regarding various integration platforms, we are keen for Armenia to take an active role in forward-looking initiatives, including those under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS,” Lavrov concluded.

By Aghakazim Guliyev