Armenian FM had meeting with NATO delegation

The delegation had a meeting with Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian to revise the Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), Mr. Steffen Elgersma, Political Affairs and Security Policy Division at NATO, stated at a discussion on prospects for and challenges to Armenia-NATO relations, reports tert.am.

Armenia and NATO have been cooperating for 20 years, which bespeaks about long-standing traditional relations.

According to Mr. Steffen Elgersma, Armenian assumed commitments to participate in NATO peacemaking missions in Afghanistan and given the security challenges facing Armenia, the country’s involvement is impressive.

Mr. Steffen Elgersma also said that the security situation has changed for the worse since IPAP was launched. Therefore, the bilateral cooperation should be focused on this fact.

Another issue arousing NATO’s concern is lack of respect for the neighboring states’ sovereignty, which may result in cold war. This is a problematic issue for NATO.

Russia is increasing its defense budget, but NATO continuous maintaining relations with Russia, Mr. Steffen Elgersma said.

The NATO official mentioned that Eastern Europe believes Russia is playing a destabilizing role.

But NATO should continue respecting the fundamental relations with Russia and maintaining an open dialogue with that state. On the other hand, it will create difficulties to the neighboring states in the south Caucasus.

Preparations for further actions are in progress in Armenia.

NATO respects Armenia’s decision and vice-versa.

Respect for individual wishes is also of great importance, he said.