The claim made by Armenia that Azerbaijan's military budget constitutes 14-15% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is therefore many times higher than Armenia's is completely contrary to the data published by relevant international organizations regarding military budgets. This figure has been repeatedly exaggerated.

Axar.az reports these words were included in a statement by Ayxan Hacizade, Head of the Press Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, in response to the comments made by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan at a press conference on August 31st.

He noted that Armenia's 46% increase in military spending compared to the previous year is another indicator proving Armenia's militarization:

"Additionally, the claim made by the Prime Minister regarding Azerbaijan allegedly purchasing weapons from Italy does not reflect the truth."