 "Is Armenia Becoming India's New Geopolitical Ally in the South Caucasus Chessboard?")
In a significant move, India has appointed defense attachés to several countries, including Armenia. This development underscores India's burgeoning interest in Armenia, a trend accelerated by recent high-level diplomatic exchanges. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made history in October 2021 with the first official visit to Armenia by a high-ranking Indian leader in three decades.
The past four years have seen increasing diplomatic activity between New Delhi and Yerevan. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan attended the Raisina Dialogue in 2023, and in early 2024, a delegation of Armenian academics and cultural leaders visited India for further discussions.
Geopolitics fuel these growing ties. Armenia seeks India's help in balancing the complex power dynamics of the South Caucasus, a region plagued by rivalries and territorial disputes. Russia, Armenia's traditional ally, has become preoccupied with the Ukraine conflict and Western sanctions, leaving Armenia feeling less secure.
Armenian leaders view India as a potential stabilizing force due to its strategic relationships with key regional players like Russia, Israel, and Iran. They believe India can urge these nations to avoid actions that might further destabilize Armenia or boost its rival, Azerbaijan, which has caused significant tensions in recent years.
This sentiment was expressed directly by Armenian scholars, strategists, and citizens during a recent visit to Yerevan. A growing consensus sees Prime Minister Modi as possessing the international standing to positively influence the South Caucasus.
India's strengthened relationship with Armenia reflects a desire to play a constructive role in this strategically important region.
