WASHINGTON, DC – In response to a direct inquiry by Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Carl Levin, president Obama’s nominee to serve as Secretary of Defense, former Senator Chuck Hagel, called for the expansion of U.S.-Armenia defense relations, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

“We would like to thank Chairman Levin for drawing attention, during this especially closely watched Senate confirmation process, to the importance of growth in the U.S.-Armenia defense relationship,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian.  “We share Senator Hagel’s view that there is much room for the development of these ties, and look forward, should he be confirmed, to engaging with the Department of Defense on this matter.”

In response to a written inquiry by Chairman Levin, Senator Hagel explained “The U.S.-Armenia defense relationship is sound. As with all relationships, there is room to grow and areas where we can strengthen our cooperation and partnership.”  He went on to note that, if confirmed, “I would continue to engage Armenian leaders to strengthen existing areas of engagement and identify new areas of cooperation that support Armenia’s defense reforms, especially its peacekeeping brigade, and continue its ability to deploy in coalition operations.”

“I would look for the United States to be Armenia’s partner of choice and help Armenia’s defense establishment contribute to regional security and stability.”