Modernization of Russian military base stems from Armenia’s interests

“Russia wants to become a pole of power and with this aim it will cooperate with all allies, including Armenia,” political scientist Levon Shirinian told reporters at a press conference today.

Commenting on the decision of the Armenian government to allocate additional areas in Yerevan’s Erebuni military airport to the Russian 102nd military base, he indicated the threats posed by Turkey.

“The military and political leadership of Armenia took a decision to start efficient and logic-based cooperation with Russia,” L. Shirinian said.

In his words, the modernization of the Russian military base also stems from Armenia’s interests, taking into account the need to ensure national security of the republic.

Vladimir Vardanov, an intelligence agent of a special group, said for his part that the Gyumri base is too small for a 5,000-strong contingent of the Russian military base so the decision to allocate additional areas is a logical, although somewhat belated move.

“We have an agreement with Russia. Under the agreement, we shall jointly ensure Armenia’s security,” V. Vardanov said.