Armenia and Pakistan discuss the possibility of establishing diplomatic ties
Pakistan has taken a significant step towards peace in the South Caucasus by establishing diplomatic relations with Armenia, marking a historic moment for the region. This move makes Pakistan the only country in the world that does not recognise Armenia, but has chosen to forge a new path.
The policy of maintaining non-recognition of Armenia has been a constant for Pakistan for three decades, as stated by Ambassador Qasim Mohiuddin. Any change in this policy, he added, would only be possible after thorough consultations with Azerbaijan.
The apparent breakthrough follows the 8th August Washington agreements between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, US President Donald Trump, and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The agreements, which aimed to resolve the long-standing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, paved the way for improved relations between the involved parties.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed this 'historic peace agreement' on a specific platform, expressing his appreciation for wisdom, foresight, and sagacity shown by all parties involved. Sharif also took the opportunity to congratulate Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, praising his vision and statesmanship.
The phone call between Sharif and Aliyev occurred on the 10th of August, following an earlier phone call between Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on the 6th. In his conversation with Mirzoyan, Dar announced that Armenia and Pakistan have agreed to consider establishing diplomatic relations.
Sharif showed appreciation towards Trump but did not mention Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in his congratulatory message. This move might be interpreted as Pakistan's way of acknowledging the role of the US in facilitating the peace agreement.
On the 14th of August, Pakistan's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Qasim Mohiuddin, reiterated Pakistan's commitment to its policy, stating that Pakistan has no intention of altering its policy towards Armenia without consulting Azerbaijan. Mohiuddin made this statement to the Azerbaijani pro-government media outlet Report.
The establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Armenia marks the dawn of a new era of peace, stability, and cooperation in the South Caucasus. As the region moves towards peace, it is hoped that this step will foster stronger ties between the nations and promote regional stability.
