Russia ready to support Armenia's defense and territorial integrity - Lavrov

Russia is ready to assist in every possible way to ensure the defense, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia. This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at an extended meeting with his Armenian counterpart in Yerevan.

He noted that the Russian side cherishes allied relations with Armenia, deep ties between the two nations. And a lot of groundwork has already been created in all spheres of relations between the states, which should be used to the maximum and wisely.

"We still consider the sphere of security as one of the most important dimensions of our alliance. We are ready to assist in every possible way to ensure the defense, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia," the Russian Foreign Minister said.

Lavrov noted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the signing of the agreement on the deployment of the Russian base and the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Russian-Armenian Humanitarian Center. He added that Russian border guards continue to serve together with their Armenian colleagues on the Armenian-Turkish and Armenian-Iranian borders.

According to him, Russia is a reliable guarantor of the energy and food security of the republic, and these agreements are fully preserved. The Minister emphasized that the rhythmic work of the intergovernmental commission sets a vector for the governmental structures and businesses of the two countries.

"The results of last year are impressive, we should build on them and move towards further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation. Russia is the main trade partner and investor in the Armenian economy," Lavrov noted.

Lavrov also added that the EAEU is becoming more effective and self-sufficient, demonstrating stability and efficiency amid turbulent developments in the global market. According to him, building up cooperation on the CIS platform is also seen as relevant.

“Speaking about different integration structures, we are interested in Armenia's active involvement in prospective processes within the framework of the SCO, as well as under the auspices of the BRICS,” he concluded.

The Russian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties, which are one of the dynamic directions and enjoy great interest and support of the citizens of the two countries. Lavrov noted that over 700 events were held last year, and this year the trend continues and in October the Days of Armenian Culture will be held in Russia.

Reprinted from https://am.sputniknews.ru/