Russian military base to carry out secure protection of Armenia

Armenia and Russia set to sign a protocol bringing in force changes into the agreement on deployment of a Russian military base in Armenia, Interfax reported. Government’s resolution was sent to Russia’s President for signing, and is released among ministerial documents.

“In addition to protection of interests of Russia, the Russian military base in Armenia will carry out secure protection of Armenia acting jointly with Armenian Armed Forces,” said in the protocol’s draft. Bringing in being the mentioned goals, Russia “is making efforts to provide Armenia with modern and compatible military equipment,” it said.

“Using of Russian base’s military units comes in force on the basis of mutual agreements, Treaty on Collective Security signed on May 15 1992, Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and mutual support between Armenia and Russia of August 29 1997, and in conformity with laws of the two countries,” is said.

In addition, it was proposed to change the 26th article as follows: “The Treaty will come in force for 49 years and will be automatically extended for five more years, if neither side notifies another part about intention to stop protocol’s force, and this notification must come no later than six months before expiration of the period.”

The protocol is liable to ratification.