Secretary General: CSTO members still consider Armenia ally

Member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) continue to consider Armenia an ally within the Russian-led security bloc, CSTO Secretary General Talaatbek Masadykov said in comments to Russia’s state-run RIA Novosti.

Masadykov said Armenia had been an active participant in the organisation since its establishment and had contributed to strengthening its collective capabilities.

“CSTO member states continue to view this country as an ally within the organisation,” Masadykov said.

He added that leaders of CSTO member states had repeatedly expressed their readiness to discuss with Yerevan issues related to a possible resumption of Armenia’s full participation in the organisation’s joint activities.

Armenia has suspended its participation in CSTO activities, while maintaining its formal membership in the organisation.

By Sabina Mammadli