YEREVAN. – Strengthening of peacekeeping forces is one of Armenia's priorities during CSTO presidency, Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian said during the meeting with Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations at UN Edmond Mulet.

Minister noted the leading role of the UN in maintaining peace and stability in the world, stressing that Armenia attaches great importance to participation in peacekeeping operations and consistently strengthens respective capabilities.

In turn, Edmond Mulet said that the need for peacekeeping missions increases in parallel to the growth of conflicts in the world.

The sides touched upon Armenia's participation in peacekeeping missions. In this context, a senior UN official praised Armenia's contribution.

Minister Nalbandian noted that the geography of Armenia's participation in peacekeeping operations demonstrates the importance that Armenia attaches to peace. He stressed that Armenia is grateful to the United States, Greece, Italy and Germany for their assistance in the development of peacekeeping skills.