- Pakistan Stands Alone: The Only Country Not Recognizing Armenia, Backing Azerbaijan in Nagorno-Karabakh
- Russia Offers to Mediate Pakistan-Armenia Ties, Seeks to Ease Pakistan’s Entry into Eurasian Bloc
Islamabad – In a significant diplomatic overture, Russia has offered to facilitate the establishment of formal relations between Pakistan and Armenia—a move that could unlock Pakistan’s deeper engagement with the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, disclosed on Tuesday that Moscow had formally proposed mediation during discussions between Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar earlier this year.
Diplomatic Hurdle to Trade
Ambassador Khorev noted that Pakistan’s lack of diplomatic ties with Armenia remains a key barrier to strengthening economic cooperation, including potential free trade agreements with the EAEU. “The decision rests with Pakistan,” he said during a media briefing in Islamabad, “but resolving this issue could open new avenues for trade and regional integration.”
Pakistan’s Unique Stance
Pakistan is the only country in the world that does not recognize Armenia as a sovereign state, a position tied to its steadfast support for Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Islamabad has long backed Baku’s territorial claims, while Azerbaijan reciprocates by supporting Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir.
The timing of Russia’s proposal coincides with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Baku, where he is expected to thank Azerbaijani leadership for their solidarity with Pakistan amid recent tensions with India.
Military Claims and Ukraine Conflict
When questioned about recent assertions by Pakistani military officials regarding the destruction of Russian-made S-400 systems, Khorev said he had seen the reports but could not confirm their authenticity.
On Ukraine, the ambassador reiterated Moscow’s readiness for peace talks but warned of further military action if diplomacy fails. “Our goal is not territorial expansion but the protection of Russian-speaking populations,” he said, adding that Russian forces could advance toward Kyiv if necessary.
Regional Implications
Analysts suggest that Russia’s mediation offer reflects its broader strategy to strengthen influence in South Asia and the Caucasus. If Pakistan considers normalizing ties with Armenia, it could reshape regional alliances while testing the limits of its strategic partnership with Azerbaijan.
For now, Islamabad has not issued an official response, leaving the diplomatic ball in Pakistan’s court.
BY: The Times Union
