YEREVAN: In order to reduce dependency on Russia, Armenia singed arms deal with France to purchase arms, said Armenia Defense Ministry on Friday. Under the agreement, the France will supply precision rifles to Armenia and provide training to Armenian military officers.
Addressing a press conference along with his French counterpart, Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikian said that Armenia has finalized a contract with the French arms manufacturer PGM for the purchase of these rifles.
With recent conflicts erupting with neighboring Azerbaijan, Armenia has been actively seeking to enhance its defense capabilities. “Armenia is committed to modernizing its armed forces, utilizing both its own resources and support from allied nations,” stated Papikian. “Our goal is to leverage all available means to safeguard our borders.”
While the specifics of the deal were not disclosed, the two nations also sealed an agreement for France to train five Armenian soldiers at its prestigious Saint Cyr Coetquidan military academy, with an additional offer to assist in training non-commissioned officers.
French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu emphasized France’s commitment to Armenia’s defense, announcing the deployment of a military adviser specializing in ground-based air defense systems. This move aims to bolster Armenia’s ability to counter potential threats and safeguard civilian populations from attacks.
Highlighting Armenia’s pursuit of reliable security partners, Lecornu addressed concerns over strained relations between Yerevan and Moscow, its traditional ally. His visit to Yerevan, accompanied by members of parliament and defense industry representatives, comes at a time of escalating tensions between Armenia and Russia, particularly regarding Moscow’s perceived inaction during Armenia’s conflicts with Azerbaijan.
France’s involvement in the region, underscored by a significant Armenian diaspora, has led to its mediation efforts in the longstanding dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh. The recent sale of defense equipment to Armenia by France, announced in October 2023, drew ire from Azerbaijan, especially following Baku’s capture of the Nagorno-Karabakh region from Armenian separatists. This event led to the displacement of around 100,000 Armenians.