Armenia, a nation nestled in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, has a deep-rooted political and historical connection with India. Both nations have actively maintained their bilateral relations for over three decades, marked by their mutual cooperation within international bodies. This article aims to delve into the various aspects of the Indo-Armenian relationship.
The Historical Background of India-Armenia Diplomatic Relations
The diplomatic ties between Armenia and India were reestablished with Armenia’s independence in 1991. In 1992, formal diplomatic relations were established between both Republics. The Indian Embassy in Yerevan kick-started its operations in 1999 marking a significant era of cooperation.
Armenia is the only CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) country, other than Russia, with which India established diplomatic relations back in 1995. The CIS was founded in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. It unites several nations including Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine.
In 1995, Armenia and India signed a historic Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation, emphasizing the unique bond between both countries. Despite strong political ties, it’s imperative to note that trade and economic cooperation hasn’t been sufficient.
Defense Relations Between India and Armenia
The defense partnership between India and Armenia has shown progressive development over the years. Armenia had already displayed interest in Indian military hardware before the 2020 war. In 2020, both nations signed a USD 40 million arms deal for supplying four SWATHI radars to detect weapon locations.
Furthermore, in October 2022, an agreement was signed for exporting missiles, rockets, and ammunition from India. This includes India’s Indigenous Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher and possibly the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM).
Economic Cooperation and Supply Chain Relations
Armenia holds strategic importance in the global supply chains, acting as a potential outpost for India in the Eurasian corridor. The Eurasian corridor extends from the Persian Gulf to Russia and Europe. Both nations can significantly contribute to several sectors including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and technology. This collaboration can offer a superior alternative to the debt-ridden Chinese Belt and Road Initiative model.
Armenia’s Strategic Significance for India
Armenia plays a crucial role in countering pan-Turkism – an expansionist ideology propagated by Turkey to establish a pan-Turkic empire. India’s military hardware exports to Armenia signify its stand against Azerbaijan, and its supporters including Turkey and Pakistan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Pakistan, an ally of Azerbaijan, offers substantial geopolitical benefits to the latter. Azerbaijan aims to annex parts of Armenian territory for gaining unhindered access to Turkey, Pakistan and the Turkic-oriented nations leading up to China. Such a scenario could lead to increased threats for India. India can utilize its military prowess to assist Armenia against Azerbaijan’s advanced military strength funded by energy revenues.
On the economic front, Armenia can play a significant role in the Indian-backed International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Iranian-backed Black Sea-Persian Gulf Transport Corridor.
The Way Forward
Armenia-India cooperation can effectively play a pivotal part in Armenia’s broader international relations. With changing global dynamics, both nations need to practice high-quality and subtle diplomacy. Armenia needs to diversify its foreign relations deeply, potentially making the Global West an auspicious direction. Through shared values, Armenia and the Community of States could closely work together, potentially strengthening national defense and fostering the implementation of modernization theory and institutionalization.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024