The presence of Russia’s 102nd military base in Gyumri is not a priority for Armenia, and if Russia needs it, the matter should be discussed with the Armenian side, Civil Contract faction MP and member of the Standing Committee on Defense and Security Armen Khachatryan said.
“When has the 102nd base ever looked after us for us to be left without protection if it leaves now? It makes no difference to us whether that military base stays or not. If they want it to remain, they should discuss it with the Armenian side. If they do not want it to remain, there is no problem — let it leave,” he said, commenting on remarks by Strong Armenia party leader Samvel Karapetyan, Factor.am reported.
Strong Armenia party leader Samvel Karapetyan said outside the courthouse that Armenia would be left without protection if the 102nd base were withdrawn from the country.
Asked whether the military base should be withdrawn from Armenia, the MP said the answer to that question had been clearly reflected in the outcome of the Armenian prime minister’s meeting with the Russian president.
“We do not need it, but if the Russian side needs it, that is a matter for discussion. There is no problem,” Khachatryan stressed.
Asked whether expenses related to maintaining the military base or its financial terms could change or increase in the near future, Armen Khachatryan said he could not give a definitive answer, but “nothing should be ruled out.”
Following the Pashinyan-Putin meeting in Bishkek, the Russian president said the military base could be withdrawn if Armenia expressed such a desire.
