YEREVAN. – There are no obstacles to equipping the Collective Rapid Reaction Forces with modern weaponry and equipment today, CSTO Secretary General Nikolay Bordyuzha said.

“The program provides for the purchase of modern equipment by the member states, as well as assistance from Russia. As regards assistance, the decision has already been made by the president,” Bordyuzha said during the Monday space bridge.

He noted that the experts from all CSTO member states will gather in Moscow on Tuesday to clarify the terms of supplies. According to the Secretary General, the program is in implementation phase.

"It is clear that the program of arming requires huge funds to be found in both Russia and other CSTO member states. This may cause a delay in terms of arms supplies to the member states, as, indeed, it is necessary to identify the sources of funding,” he added.

Referring to the peacekeeping forces, Bordyuzha said they were created as a form of collective security system and are ready to take action if necessary.

“We plan to establish contact with the Department for UN peacekeeping operations in the near future to include these forces in the UN register, and then, if necessary, we can use these peacekeeping forces mandated by the Security Council, of course, after the corresponding consolidated CSTO decision is made,” he resumed.