Pakistan and Armenia formalize diplomatic ties

In a significant move, Armenia and Pakistan have rekindled diplomatic relations after over three decades of non-recognition by Pakistan. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China.

The decision comes amidst a complex web of regional politics, with both countries having consistently supported opposing sides in the long-standing conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. Pakistan was the second country to recognise Azerbaijan, following Turkey, and has been a vocal supporter of Azerbaijan's military endeavours against Armenia.

Armenia, on the other hand, has been supporting India's claims to the contested Kashmir region. This shift in relations saw a corresponding increase in Armenia's ties with Pakistan's arch-rival, India.

The newfound diplomatic relations between Armenia and Pakistan were marked by the signing of a Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic relations. According to the agreement, both countries will exchange representatives and provide each other necessary assistance for the performance of diplomatic relations.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and his Pakistani counterpart Mohammad Ishaq Dar discussed prospects for developing bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on engagement on multilateral platforms, including the UN and the SCO.

The move towards normalising relations with Pakistan could have implications for Armenia's future in the SCO. Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalyan issued a vague statement on relations with the SCO, stating that they will continue working with interested SCO member states. Political commentator Hakob Badalyan argued that an 'imminent discussion' about Armenia's SCO membership is expected following Yerevan's announcement.

However, the path to full SCO membership may not be smooth, as there were unconfirmed reports that India had blocked Azerbaijan's bid to join the bloc, and Pakistan had simultaneously blocked Armenia's application.

The Caucasus region is experiencing changes, with Armenia and China announcing the establishment of a strategic partnership during the SCO summit. Independent journalism in the region is under threat, but a newsroom powered by readers is being built in response.

As the region navigates these shifts, the Armenia-Pakistan diplomatic thaw is a significant development, marking a potential new chapter in regional politics. The Armenian and Pakistani governments will need to navigate the complexities of their respective alliances while working towards mutual understanding and cooperation.