The Armenian side in Sochi proposed to extend the mandate of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Nagorno-Karabakh. However, the proposal was eventually rejected, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said on Wednesday at the joint session of parliamentary committees.

The mandate, he said, was proposed to be extended indefinitely.

"We proposed extending the mandate indefinitely. Let's say for 5 or 20 years. Although our proposal was not accepted, nevertheless, in my opinion, the issue has already become relevant and will be included in the current agenda," Pashinyan noted.

Pashinyan also recalled the November 9, 2020, trilateral statement. Thus, the mandate of peacekeepers can be extended automatically. But only if none of the parties raises objections six months before the expiration of the 5-year term.

PM noted that it was important for Armenia to state that none of the parties has or will have objections to the automatic prolongation of the peacekeepers' mandate.

"The presence of peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh is the most important guarantor of the security and rights of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians. At least until reliable mechanisms and guarantees are established," the PM said.