Defense and security of the South Caucasus is the priority of Russian-Armenian relations, a Russian expert said.
“Relations between Armenia and Russia are developing and transforming, with Armenia being a country, which influences geopolitical situation in the South Caucasus,” Andrey Areshev, deputy director of the Moscow-based strategic culture fund, said during a conference titled “Russia and Armenia in world and regional politics: problems and perspectives.”
“Armenia is a traditional ally for Russia, specifically in defense sector. In this context, extension of the Russian military base deployment in Gyumri is extremely important. Russia tries to preserve its political, economic and military presence in the South Caucasus. It is also the main security guarantor for Armenia, which is surrounded by unfriendly state,” he said.
