On 12 August, the Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev conducted an official visit to Armenia in order to discuss the current cooperation prospects between Armenia and Russia in the security sector. During his visit, Patrushev held meetings with the Secretary of the Armenian Security Council Armen Grigoryan and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

At the meeting with Grigoryan, Patrushev highlighted the importance of close cooperation between Russia and Armenia on issues of international information security both on a bilateral basis and within the framework of international organizations. The interaction between the security councils, law enforcement agencies, military departments and special services of the two counties was also on the agenda. The Russian-Armenian cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Union, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Collective Security Treaty Organization and the United Nations General Assembly was the last topic discussed at the meeting.

Various topics were also touched upon at the meeting with Pashinyan. The Armenian Prime Minister noted that the relations between the two countries are growing dynamically, and that the dialogue between them is being conducted within a constructive atmosphere. Pashinyan and Patrushev exchanged views on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the maintenance of military balance and ensuring stability in the region, as well as the developments of and challenges for regional and international security. A special mention was given to the provision of humanitarian aid to the Syrian people and the restoration of peace in Syria.

Although being scheduled, Patrushev’s visit to Armenia was perceived by media sources as a test of trust for Pashinyan by the Russian officials. The Azerbaijani newspaper Azerdaily drew attention to the fact Patrushev’s visit coincided with Pashinyan’s recent statement in Stepanakert/Khankendi that Nagorno-Karabakh is an integral part of Armenia (Caucasus Watch reported). The same source also quoted an article published by the Foreign Brief Centre at the National University of Australia that Pashinyan’s statement led to an increased tension in the region and that Patrushev’s visit could have implications on the Russian weapon supply to Armenia.