"Armenia's increase in defense spending next year is not a preparation for war, but for peace," Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during his speech in the parliament today, Paralel.Az reports.

Pashinyan called on those who are worried about increasing the military budget of his country to calm down.

According to him, the increase in defense spending is not directed against Azerbaijan: "This is not a preparation for war, but for peace, because ensuring the safety of citizens is the most important guarantee of peace and stability. We do not intend to attack anyone. I am sure that all the neighboring countries accept this with understanding."

The head of the Armenian government said that next year's defense spending will double compared to 2018, not for war, but for peace. "Any sovereign state has not only the right but also the obligation to strengthen its army."