Azernews.Az

BAKU – Azerbaijani Defense Minister Safar Abiyev has criticized Armenia’s statements that its defense pact signed recently with Russia means Moscow would come to its defense if a new war resumes with Azerbaijan.

"These statements are a sign of weekness, not strength," Abiyev told reporters Monday. He also labeled the statements as "political and psychological".

The Armenian and Russian presidents last Friday signed an agreement extending the term of the Russian military base in the Armenian town of Gyumri until 2044, though Moscow was previously set to withdraw in 2020. The protocol also commits Russia to updating Armenia's military hardware and ensuring its security.

Regarding prospects for Azerbaijan’s signing a similar deal with Turkey, its ally, Abiyev reminded that the agreement on strategic partnership and mutual assistance signed earlier this month during Turkish President Abdullah Gul’s visit to Baku covers military support as well.

Armenia has had territorial claims against neighboring Azerbaijan since the early 1990s. The country’s armed forces have been occupying over 20 percent of Azerbaijan’s internationally-recognized territory, defying international law. Azerbaijani officials have repeatedly warned against Yerevan’s policy of aggression, saying the country’s land will be freed at any cost.