Mkhitar Hayrapetyan Attends IDC 2025 International Defense Conference in Abu Dhabi

On February 16, at the invitation of His Excellency Mohamed Bin Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defense Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, the Minister of High-Tech Industry of the Republic of Armenia, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, participated in the International Defense Conference (IDC) themed “Rethinking Defense: Innovation, Integration, and Resilience” in Abu Dhabi, as part of the IDEX 2025 International Defense Conference.

During the panel titled “Disinformation and Influence Operations,” Minister Hayrapetyan presented Armenia's policy on combating disinformation and the use of deepfakes. He emphasized the importance of the relationship between the state, private sector, and society, as well as the concepts of cybersecurity, media literacy, fact-checking, and international cooperation in the field of information security. He also discussed the RA Government's strategic priorities, the work carried out by the RA Ministry of High-Tech Industry, proposed legislative changes, measures taken in cybersecurity, and prospects for cooperation between the state and private sectors. Additionally, he highlighted programs aimed at increasing the accuracy and reliability of information systems.

The Minister emphasized that disinformation is not a new challenge, but with the development of modern technologies and new channels for information dissemination, new challenges arise that are relevant not only in Armenia but also worldwide.

In his speech, Minister Hayrapetyan pointed out that in today’s hyper-connected world, information has become a powerful tool that can shape perceptions, influence behavior, and even change the course of global events. The discussion explored how both state and non-state actors can manipulate narratives and spread disinformation, impacting public opinion and political decisions.

During the panel, the Minister also discussed topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, blockchain technologies, fact-checking methods, and the importance of international cooperation. He referenced the Memorandum of Understanding signed in Paris between the RA Ministry of High-Tech Industry and the French company Mistral AI, aimed at fostering AI-driven innovations in Armenia.

Minister Hayrapetyan underscored Armenia’s readiness to actively engage in international initiatives, cooperate with partners, and address current challenges in the field of information security.

The panel discussion was moderated by Vice Admiral (Retired) Kevin Donegan, Former Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and the Fifth Fleet.

The panel was also attended by:
• Aisha Manzoor Watto – Director, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA)
• Liisa Past – Former Director of National Cybersecurity, Republic of Estonia
• Matthew Cochran – Executive Director, DSMC (Defense Services Marketing Council) International, a defense, space, and security consultancy

IDC will be followed by the IDEX 2025 International Defense Exhibition, considered one of the most important strategic events in the Middle East and North Africa region. IDEX is the only international defense exhibition in the Middle East, showcasing the latest technologies in the land, maritime, and air defense sectors.