During the meeting, discussions were held on cooperation related matters with US Army in Europe and the State of Kansas. The RA Minister of Defence stressed the importance of a number of projects implemented in the framework of cooperation, notably of joint exercises aimed at increasing the level of interoperability, preparation of professional NCO corps, training of special subdivisions – medical and in detecting and neutralizing makeshift explosives – which Armenia holds in support of international peacekeeping missions, and more.

Lieutenant-General Hodges expressed gratitude for the admission, and noted that has was happy to be in Yerevan and participate in the discussions on the expansion of cooperation, especially given the fact that he had an opportunity earlier this year to observe the impressive work of the medical staff of the Armenian Armed Forces at the Saber Junction combat training exercise at the US Army combat training center in Hohensfels Germany.

The meeting resulted in an agreement to further develop cooperation in the fields of peacekeeping and NATO’s Operational Capabilities Concept, between the United Stated Army Europe, Kansas Army National Guard and Armenia, both in bilateral format and with regional partners.

Throughout the discussions regarding the NKR conflict settlement, the RA Minister of Defence presented information about the military operations launched by Azerbaijan against NKR in the beginning of April, as well as the current situation on the contact line.

In light of recent developments of the NKR issue, the American side expressed concern over the losses suffered by the opposing sides during the military operations and noted that it remains committed to the peaceful settlement of the conflict through the mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group.

During their visit, the American delegation participated in the inaugural ceremony of Marshal Hamazasp Babajanyan’s statue.