12:20,

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 23, ARMENPRESS. Armenia’s arms acquisitions aren’t directed against anyone, Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan has said.

Speaking at a joint press conference with French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu, Papikyan said that Armenia seeks to modernize the capabilities of its military.

“This implies that we need to supplement these needs through our resources, and of course, support of partner countries would only help us. Our approach is the following: the Republic of Armenia is buying weapons and ammunition with the purpose of protecting its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The weapons and ammunition bought by the Republic of Armenia are not meant for aggression against any country,” Papikyan said.

He added that the country is facing dangers.

“Of course, I can’t deny that there is a danger, and that danger is visible from the existing rhetoric, and it is our duty to protect the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. And regardless what security environment we would have after signing a peace treaty in the future, the armed forces of the Republic of Armenia will continue acquiring defensive armaments,” Papikyan said.