Armenia and India in a Changing World: Strengthening Ties, Security Futures

The 52nd Sapru House Lecture, delivered by H.E. Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, on March 11, 2024, at Sapru House, New Delhi, provided an insightful reflection on the evolving strategic partnership between Armenia and India. Under the theme “Armenia and India in a Changing World: Strengthening Ties, Security Futures,” the lecture explored the historical, cultural, economic, and security dimensions shaping bilateral relations between the two nations.

A Deep-Rooted Historical Connection
India was among the first countries to recognise Armenia’s independence in 1991, leading to the signing of the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation in 1995. Marking the 30th anniversary of this significant document, Minister Mirzoyan emphasized the symbolic and strategic importance of strengthening this enduring partnership. However, the ties between Armenia and India extend far beyond recent decades, reflecting centuries of historical and civilizational exchanges.

“Although separated by geographical distance, Armenia has always regarded India as a close partner — a nation with which we share deep civilizational bonds and a long history of amicable relations.”

Armenian merchants played a pioneering role in cross-border trade and cultural exchanges in early modern India. The Armenian community contributed significantly to India’s socio-cultural landscape, as evidenced by the establishment of the first Armenian newspaper, “Azdarar,” published in Madras in 1794. Additionally, the Armenian College and Philanthropic Academy in Kolkata and various historical churches continue to stand as testaments to the vibrant Armenian heritage preserved in India.

Strengthening Economic and Security Partnerships
The contemporary Armenia-India relationship is witnessing remarkable growth across various domains, including trade, security, technology, education, and cultural exchanges. The Minister acknowledged India’s pivotal role in advancing defence cooperation between the two countries.

“Our bilateral defence and security cooperation continues to expand. We welcome the first consultations held between our Defence Ministries and believe that the appointment of resident Military Attachés represents another valuable asset in developing deeper cooperation in this vital field.”

Economic engagement between Armenia and India has surged in recent years. However, Minister Mirzoyan highlighted the need to further enhance trade volumes by fostering direct business-to-business (B2B) interactions and institutional engagement. As the Chair of the Armenian side in the Intergovernmental Commission, he reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing this objective.

Connectivity and Strategic Cooperation
Recognizing the structural challenges faced by landlocked nations like Armenia, the Minister underscored the significance of enhanced connectivity for regional economic integration. Armenia is actively engaging with India within the framework of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Chabahar port initiative. Additionally, trilateral cooperation between Armenia, India, and Iran is being explored to bolster connectivity and trade facilitation.

“Enhanced connectivity is crucial to addressing the structural constraints of landlocked developing countries and promoting global market integration.”

Expanding Multilateral Engagement
Armenia and India share common perspectives on key global issues, including a commitment to international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. Minister Mirzoyan expressed Armenia’s support for UN reform and emphasized the necessity of strengthening multilateral institutions to address evolving global challenges effectively.

Furthermore, Armenia actively collaborates with leading Indian think tanks, including the Observer Research Foundation, Vivekananda International Foundation, and Usanas Foundation. Minister Mirzoyan highlighted the importance of such platforms in fostering intellectual and diplomatic exchanges.

“Platforms like the Raisina Dialogue, where Armenia frequently and broadly participates, offer invaluable opportunities to strengthen interactions with Indian partners. Similarly, the ORF and Indian officials and expert community actively engaged in our initiative, the Yerevan Dialogue.”

Armenia’s Vision for Regional Stability
Against the backdrop of global uncertainties, Minister Mirzoyan reaffirmed Armenia’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and stability. He elaborated on Armenia’s ongoing peace negotiations with Azerbaijan, emphasizing that the potential peace treaty would be grounded in mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“There is no way to peace, peace is the way.” — Mahatma Gandhi

In addition to normalizing relations with Azerbaijan, Armenia has also engaged in diplomatic efforts with Türkiye. Minister Mirzoyan outlined steps taken towards reopening borders, restoring historic sites such as the Ani Bridge, and enhancing transport connectivity for regional stability.

A Vision for the Future
Armenia’s commitment to regional economic integration is exemplified by the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative, aimed at unblocking transport infrastructure across the South Caucasus. The initiative aligns with Armenia’s broader goal of fostering connectivity through railways, pipelines, electricity grids, and trade corridors.