On January 28, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan issued a congratulatory message on the 34th anniversary of the Armed Forces. He highlighted extensive investments and reforms, including the voluntary certification program which has led to significantly higher salaries for servicemen. Pashinyan emphasized that the army’s sole task remains the defense of the country’s internationally recognized territory. He reiterated that while Armenia is not preparing for war, a strong army is essential to prevent vulnerability to external threats. At a solemn session at the Ministry of Defense, Pashinyan and Suren Papikyan, the Minister of Defense, delivered speeches. The Prime Minister emphasized reforms in education, the introduction of a sergeant system, modernization of uniforms and weapons, digitalization, and promotion based on merit. He also highlighted strategic priorities such as legitimacy, interdependence, and long-term predictability, linking these to Armenia’s role in regional trade and infrastructure projects, including the "Crossroads of Peace" and TRIPP projects. Pashinyan stated that the ideology of "Real Armenia" focused on ensuring the security and well-being of citizens within the country’s internationally recognized territory and reiterated that peace was the most important guarantee of security. He stressed that the army must remain strong and capable to prevent vulnerability to external threats. Summing up, Pashinyan congratulated the Armed Forces on their 34th anniversary, praising the achievements of recent years. "In many directions, the impossible has simply been done, the impossible has become a reality, and this is an extremely important achievement," he stated. On the occasion of Army Day, Pashinyan presented awards to a group of servicemen for their contributions to the security and defense of Armenia.