Armenia

Armenia and UK Discuss Anti-Corruption Efforts in Defense Cooperation Talks

From March 28 to 29, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported discussions concerning anti-corruption efforts were conducted in London as part of defense cooperation between the Republic of Armenia and the United Kingdom. Leading the Armenian delegation was Hamlet Batikyan, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Defense.

A meeting ensued between the Armenian delegation and representatives from the UK Ministry of Defense, including Paul Wyatt, Director General of Security Policy, and Guy Lester, Director of Defence Assurance.

The focal point of the discussions revolved around enhancing Armenia-UK cooperation in combating corruption. Hamlet Batikyan elaborated on the Ministry of Defense's ongoing anti-corruption initiatives, while the British delegation offered their expertise and methodologies in the field, expressing willingness to assist Armenia in this endeavor.

Several agreements were reached during the discussions, outlining plans for joint projects and providing expert support to implement anti-corruption measures.

Armenian Ministry of Defence Denies Reports of Military Build-Up Along Borders

On March 31, the Ministry of Defence of Armenia refuted claims made by Azerbaijani sources regarding alleged concentrations and active movements of personnel, armored vehicles, artillery, and other military assets by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia along various border directions, asserting that such reports are not grounded in reality.

Furthermore, the Armenian Ministry of Defense countered these allegations by highlighting that photographs circulated on March 30, depicting a motorcade of recruit drivers of the Armenian Armed Forces engaged in training exercises, were falsely portrayed as military movements towards the borders in certain Telegram channels.

The EU monitoring mission stationed in Armenia likewise refuted any suggestion of Armenian military buildup along the border.

“EUMA again patrolled on the Armenian side of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border today, our monitors didn’t observe any unusual military movements. It was a calm and peaceful Easter Monday,” the EU Mission said in a post on X.

The Ministry of Defense of Armenia affirmed the stability of the operational situation along the Armenian-Azerbaijani state border, asserting that no additional measures are deemed necessary to safeguard the border at this time.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan's Defense Minister Sets Priorities for Military Readiness

On March 30, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported that Azerbaijan's Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, convened an official meeting at the Central Command Post. The meeting saw the participation of Deputy Defense Ministers, Commanders of various military units, and Chiefs of Main Departments, both in person and via video teleconference.

Addressing the attendees, the Defense Minister relayed the tasks entrusted to the Azerbaijan Army by Supreme Commander-in-Chief Mr. Ilham Aliyev, as well as the President's remarks made during the Novruz holiday in Khankendi on March 18. These directives underscored the significance placed on the combat capability of the Azerbaijan Army during the Second Karabakh War and subsequent anti-terror operations.

Analyzing the current operational situation along the Azerbaijani-Armenian border, tasks were outlined to ensure the high combat readiness of military units and enhance their service-combat activities. Colonel General Hasanov stressed the importance of intensifying exercises and practical training in line with real combat scenarios, utilizing modern weaponry and equipment.

Instructions were provided regarding the preservation of military personnel's health, the psychological assessment of new recruits slated for active military service in April, and their smooth transition into military life. Furthermore, directives were issued concerning the demobilization process for service members completing their military service.

Azerbaijan Army Retrieves Abandoned Military Equipment in Karabakh Region

On the same day, following the anti-terror operation carried out by the Azerbaijan Army, efforts are underway to locate and retrieve military equipment, weapons, and ammunition previously belonging to the Armenian armed forces in the Karabakh region.

During inspections of the territories in the Vang settlement of the Kalbajar region and the Vangli settlement of the Aghdara region, 8 KS-19 anti-aircraft guns were discovered in abandoned firing positions attributed to the enemy. Subsequently, the military equipment was safely transported to a designated collection point in adherence to safety protocols.

Azerbaijan Raises Alarm Over Armenian Military Buildup Along Border

On March 31, the Azerbaijani side reported that recent observations indicate a concentration of manpower, armored vehicles, artillery installations, and other heavy firepower by the Armenian armed forces along various directions of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conditional border. Additionally, there has been an increase in troop movement and heightened aggressive rhetoric, alongside a surge in provocative information aimed at escalating tensions in the information environment, all indicative of further activation of revanchist forces.

In response to these developments, Azerbaijan issued a stern warning, asserting that any military provocation by the Armenian armed forces would be met with resolute action by the Azerbaijan Army. It is emphasized that Armenia and its allies will bear full responsibility for any escalation of the situation or potential provocations.

Georgia

Meetings with Ambassadors

On March 26, Minister of Defense Irakli Chikovani welcomed Ambassador Petr Kubernát and Defense Attache Vice Colonel Mikhal Sobarna of the Czech Republic to Georgia for an introductory meeting. Both parties underscored the fruitful defense cooperation between Georgia and the Czech Republic, focusing on initiatives outlined in the NATO-Georgia Essential Package (SNGP) and the European Peace Mechanism (EPF).

Simultaneously, Minister Chikovani held a similar introductory meeting with Ambassador Matúš Bušovský and Defense Attache Colonel Milan Shintai of the Republic of Slovakia. Discussions centered on NATO-Georgia's contributions to the SNGP and EPF, with a mutual aspiration for further advancement of bilateral defense cooperation.

On March 29, Minister Chikovani met with Estonia's Ambassador Riina Kaljurand to discuss defense cooperation. The meeting highlighted Estonia's involvement in implementing the SNGP and EPF, particularly cybersecurity collaboration. Plans for cooperation in international exercises and military education were also addressed.

On the same day, Minister Chikovani hosted Ambassador Sheraz Gasri and Defense Attache Vice Colonel Frederick Campos of France. Expressing gratitude for France's support, the meeting emphasized France's significant contribution to enhancing Georgia's defense capabilities within the frameworks of SNGP and EPF. Discussions encompassed various aspects of defense cooperation, including the 2024 bilateral military cooperation plan, with hopes for continued successful collaboration.

Georgian Soldiers Excel in 'Best Fighter Competition' in US State of Georgia

On March 30, Georgian soldiers showcased their prowess by participating in the "Best Fighter Competition" held in the state of Georgia, US. Major General Giorgi Matiashvili, the head of the Defense Forces of Georgia, extended his congratulations to Junior Sergeant Paata Sabiashvili and Corporal Specialist Irakli Nozadze for their commendable performance upon their return from the competition.

The competition, which featured Georgian and American soldiers, encompassed various challenges, including shooting, march-jumping in complete equipment, physical fitness tests, military topography, firefighting, medical training, connecting angles, and water action. "The Best Warrior Competition" marked the 30-year cooperation between the Georgian Defense Forces and the US State of Georgia, along with the US National Guard.