I Engage in Politics So That the Defender Remains Free From It, Tonoyan

The Minister of Defense of Armenia, Davit Tonoyan, sent a message to the 12th extraordinary congress of the Union of Defenders.

The message reads, in part:

“Dear Defenders,

I salute you on the occasion of the 12th extraordinary congress of the Union of Defenders and sincerely share the principles that the organization has adopted throughout its activities, highly valuing the work of the defenders. ‘I engage in politics so that the Defenders remain free from it.’ These words of Vazgen Sargsyan became a guiding principle, outlining the true mission of the Defenders—always alongside the state and the army, away from various political streams.

With pride and palpable admiration, flipping through the glorious pages of our recent history, filled with selflessness, patriotism, and dedication, it can be unequivocally stated that, in critical moments, the actions of any defender have been decisive, where even the heroism of one person has often determined the outcome of the most complex and important situations. While still on the path of forming a stable security environment, we must always understand that it is equally important for all of us to DO MORE THAN..., and that any shortcoming or delay could lead to severe consequences.

Dear Defenders, I firmly believe that faith in one’s objectives and the will to act for them are the primary prerequisites for achieving success in any field. You have demonstrated high qualities of will both during wartime and in the post-war period, not only fulfilling your responsibilities with great accountability but also confronting the dangers threatening the country with the dignity worthy of its master. This was also the case during these days in 2016 when the Defenders were once again on the front lines, alongside the Armenian soldier.

It is now difficult to overstate the role and significance of the Defenders, especially in the patriotic education of young boys and girls and, accordingly, in having an effective mobilization resource imbued with a sense of mission. This is undoubtedly your great contribution to the defense system of the country, and it is the result of your devoted work.

Today, as you gather once again to discuss, analyze, consolidate your achievements, and plan key issues for future activities, I am confident that you will draw useful conclusions and, going forward, will not spare efforts and energy to enhance the activities of the Union, reinforce the state’s defense capability, and maintain its important role as a unifier of all freedom fighters.

I wish all of us boundless energy and continuous achievements in our responsible service, sincerely hoping that your initiatives and ideas directed towards the development of the Union will be crowned with success and that all beneficial national projects will be realized.

Glory to the Armenian volunteer, soldier, freedom fighter, defender, and glory to our pan-Armenian, united, victorious spirit!”