Armenia does not intend to withdraw its peacekeepers from Kosovo, despite the statements by n Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. This becomes clear from the written response given to Sputnik Armenia by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenia.

In a recent interview with the Public Television of Armenia, Pashinyan stated that the Armenian army has no tasks to carry out outside the internationally recognized territory of Armenia. Speaking in the National Assembly on April 15, Pashinyan repeated this statement, noting that the Armenian army has no and will not have any tasks outside the sovereign and internationally recognized territory of Armenia.

In connection with the premier's first statement, a query was sent to the MFA of Armenia, asking what tasks the Armenian peacekeepers are carrying out in Kosovo, and whether Armenia—taking into account Pashinyan's statement—plans to withdraw its peacekeepers from Kosovo.

The MFA responded that the mission of international peacekeeping forces is to ensure peace, Armenia is committed to the peace agenda, and this commitment applies not only to the South Caucasus, but also to the world community.

“By participating in the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, the Republic of Armenia is contributing to international efforts aimed at easing tension and establishing stability in the Balkan region,” the Armenian MFA added.

Also, the ministry emphasized the importance of Armenia’s participation in international peacekeeping missions in the context of expanding cooperation with international partners in establishing peace and security.

The MFA believes that Armenia’s participation in international peacekeeping missions contributes also to the development of Armenia’s security system increasing resilience, based on international standards and acquired experience, making it more resilient to modern security challenges.

It is stressed that Armenia is ready to continue participating in the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, contributing to strengthening peace and stability in the Balkan region.

Armenian peacekeepers are carrying out a mission also in Lebanon—within the framework of the UN UNIFIL mission.