Armenian FM: Armenia braces for hybrid  surge ahead of June elections

ArmInfo.Armenia expects an increase in hybrid attacks ahead of the parliamentary elections this June, as stated by Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan at the PACE session in response to a question from a member of the PACE socialist faction about how the organization could help Armenia safeguard itself against hybrid attacks.

The Armenian Minister stated that manipulation of false information has become part of everyday life in Armenia, as it is in other countries. "Hybrid attacks are expected  to intensify ahead of the elections in early June. However, we have developed an immunity and the capacity to defend ourselves in an environment where these threats have persisted for the last four to five years. Manipulation of false information has become part of our daily lives, as in other countries. This authoritative body, which supports Armenia and its democracy and is ready to provide support, can come to our country and observe the situation firsthand. We are confident that together we will overcome all possible hybrid attacks," Mirzoyan stated.

Regarding further cooperation with the EU, Mirzoyan emphasized that deepening relations with the European Union is part of Armenia's policy, which is also reflected in a document initiated by the country's civil society and adopted by the Armenian parliament. "It makes the pursuit of EU membership a legal priority for any Armenian government. We are currently taking numerous steps in this direction: integration across sectors, visa liberalization, participation in numerous programs. I hope our joint efforts will continue," Mirzoyan said.

In his speech, the Minister also touched on Armenian-Azerbaijani and Armenian-Turkish relations. He  underscored Yerevan's commitment to advancing the peace agenda and forging diplomatic relations with Baku and Ankara, while also  working towards unblocking all borders. He also expressed hope for the release of the  19 Armenian captives still held in Azerbaijan.