Armenia can suspend CFE only if neighbors reconsider their positions

PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia's suspension of the CFE is a tough attempt to correct the mistakes the Russian leadership made in 1990-ies, RA National Assembly Vice Speaker Vahan Hovhannisian told a news conference today.



"NATO's constants enlargement and post soviet republics' aspiration to join the Alliance do cause Russia's concern. However, western partners will not favor Russia for suspending the Treaty. At the same time, Russia's move should not arouse any concern, since this country is not plotting aggressive programs," he said.



When asked whether Armenia can follow Russia, the Vice Speaker said: "Such move is possible only if Armenia's neighbors reconsider their positions. As you know, one of the neighbors, Azerbaijan has never limited purchase of armament, violating the CFE principles," IA Regnum reports.



Russia's unilateral moratorium on a major arms reductions treaty in Europe came into force December 12.



During the temporary suspension of Russia's participation in the CFE treaty, the country will not be bound by limitations [under the treaty], including by 'flank limitations', on the number of deployed conventional weapons.