YEREVAN.- The last year stood out by growing tension along the line of contact, especially in the context of Azerbaijan’s involvement of snipers and attempts to conduct acts of sabotage, Armenian Defense Minister said.

“The actions got an adequate response of the Armenian side,” he said, addressing professors and students of the Yerevan State University on Saturday.

The Minister stated Armenian armed forces incurred losses last year. Most of the soldiers were killed, while fulfilling the combat tasks.

“We must be proud of having warriors ready to defend positions at the expense of their lives,” Ohanyan said.

Defense Minister said combat readiness of the Armenian army has increased. Armenia has been developing the defense industry.

“Our neighbors are constantly voicing bellicose rhetoric, expressing readiness to resume hostilities and refusing to take confidence-building measures to cut the number of incidents along the line of contact. This makes us be on the alert. The saying goes: If you want peace, prepare for war,” Ohanyan noted.

Photo by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.am