The absence of Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan, Head of Foreign Political Department Ararat Mirzoyan, and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan from the upcoming Council of Defense Ministers meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has raised concerns about the country’s commitment to the organization.

Earlier it was reported that Ararat Mirzoyan will not participate in the session of Foreign Ministers on the eve of the CSTO Summit. Additionally, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan informed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko a week ago that he will not attend the CSTO Minsk Summit.

The Armenian Defense Ministry spokesman, Aram Torosyan, confirmed these absences in response to “Azatut’s” questions.

It is unclear what specific reasons are behind their absence, but their non-participation has sparked concern about Armenia’s commitment to the organization. The CSTO is a regional security alliance that aims to maintain stability and security in Central Asia and Russia. With key members absent from important meetings, some have questioned whether this could impact its effectiveness in achieving these goals.