Movses Hakobyan:

Fragile, but lasting peace in Karabakh best achievement of defense army

May 9, 2013

PanARMENIAN.Net - On May 9, Armenians celebrate a triple holiday: the Victory Day, the NKR Defense Army Day and Liberation of Shushi. The Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) Republic Defense Minister, defense army commander, Lieutenant General Movses Hakobyan spoke about the achievements and shortcomings of the defense army, as well as its regional role in an interview with PanARMENIAN.Net.

Which are the major achievements and shortcoming of Artsakh defense army over the past years?

The fragile but lasting peace that the defense army has been upholding for 20 years in Karabakh is the best achievement of our army. As for the shortcomings – they are for Karabakh people to determine.

Some parts of society treat the army service with distrust. Are any steps being taken to dispel army service-related fears among the young people?

Only those unaware of actual reforms in the army as well as steps to boost military and patriotic upbringing can have service-related fears. We have no problems with mandatory military service, with a permanent and goal-oriented work to improve the sector conducted. Also, activities are held to improve the ties between the army and the society, involving representatives of different ranks of society and professional military officers.

Should any steps be taken to improve healthcare in the army? How does the healthcare system work?

Army is one of those rare institutions where every one has to pass a mandatory medical examination twice a year, as well as undergo prophylactic measures for timely detection of viral diseases. Fully-equipped clinics are operating in every military unit, with ongoing activities to improve the sector.

Relationships between officers and soldiers in the army aren’t always smooth. What’s the optimal code of behavior for an army officer?

Any relationships in the army, as well as rights and liabilities, are stipulated in the military regulations to be followed by the officers and soldiers as well. According to regulations, officers and soldiers are obligated to fulfill the tasks set. This is the army’s reality.

What’s the role of the Armenian army in the region in view of pending situation with Karabakh conflict?

Armenian army has always been one of the most important factors for provision of peace and safety in the region.

Mary Taryan / PanARMENIAN News

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