BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:30 P.M.) – The Armenian Army is sending approximately 100 soldiers to Syria as part of a humanitarian mission, Armenian Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan stated on Wednesday, as quoted by Panarmenian.

“These are the humanitarian experts of the Armenian Armed Forces, including doctors, sappers, as well as personnel who will ensure their safety,” Tonoyan said.

Armenia has played an integral role in alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Syria, as their constant aid shipments have helped a large number of Syrians.

Both Syria and Armenia maintain close diplomatic and economic relations, with the latter refusing to cutoff ties to Damascus, despite pressure from the U.S. and other western states.