Why Pakistan is Strengthening Ties with India’s Strategic Friend Armenia: Implications for India

New Delhi: Following India’s diplomatic engagement with Armenia, Pakistan is reportedly negotiating with the Armenian government to establish its embassy in Yerevan. According to The Economic Times, Pakistani and Armenian diplomats are planning to open the embassy next year. If successful, this move could raise strategic concerns for India, as Armenia has historically supported India on the Kashmir issue and may now draw closer to Pakistan and Turkey.

A New Diplomatic Chapter
The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a joint statement was signed to establish diplomatic relations. Both governments agreed to exchange representatives and strengthen diplomatic engagement. While the presence of a Pakistani embassy in Yerevan does not automatically indicate a pro-Pakistan policy by Armenia, India is closely monitoring developments.

Armenia: A Consistent Supporter of India
Armenia has consistently supported India on Kashmir, and India began exporting defense hardware to Armenia a few years ago. The growing India-Armenia defense cooperation includes the Akash-1S surface-to-air missile system, with Armenia becoming its first international buyer in 2022 for a deal valued at $720 million. India delivered the first battery in November 2024, with a second shipment scheduled for mid-2025.

Additionally, India supplied Armenia with the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system, aligning with Armenia’s broader efforts to modernize its artillery and reduce dependence on Russian supplies. Strategically, Armenia’s acquisition of Indian defense technology strengthens its capabilities while providing India with a key partner in Eurasia.

Strategic and Economic Implications
If Pakistan successfully deepens ties with Armenia, India may need to consider leveraging the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as a strategic alternative. This trilateral corridor between India, Armenia, and Iran could enhance trade connectivity while countering potential geopolitical moves by Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. The recently discussed ‘Zangezur Corridor’ bypasses Armenia’s Syunik province and could expand Turkey’s access to Eurasia, which the U.S. might exploit to counter Iran and Russia.

Historic Partnership
India and Armenia share centuries-old historical ties, with Armenian traders establishing churches in Kolkata and Chennai during the Mughal period. Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1992, with the 30th anniversary celebrated in 2022. The recent defense and economic cooperation has further strengthened the bilateral relationship, making Armenia a key strategic partner for India in Eurasia.