In an unprecedented visit highlighting Armenia’s shifting allegiances, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg marked his first decade in office with a trip to the South Caucasus nation, as per a statement by NATO’s press office on March 19.
Despite previous alignment with Moscow on regional issues, Armenia has seen tensions rise with Russia following a recent failure of Russian “peacekeepers” to intervene during Azerbaijan’s military incursion into Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023.
Concluding his South Caucasus tour, Stoltenberg held talks with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, a move publicized through a NATO press release.
NATO’s chief commended Armenia for its consistent partnership, noting its heightened participation in peacekeeping endeavors, such as in Kosovo under NATO’s directive.
The importance of regional stability was a focus of the Stoltenberg-Pashinyan dialogue, where the NATO chief emphasized the need for Armenia and Azerbaijan to forge a lasting peace conducive to mutual normalization.
Reinforcing these sentiments, Stoltenberg highlighted global security concerns at a joint press briefing, while also praising Armenia for its support of Ukraine amid Russian hostilities.
Armenia’s dedication to NATO’s values was further underscored by Stoltenberg, who voiced support for the nation’s sovereignty and peace-seeking goals.
Prime Minister Pashinyan, who assumed power following a 2018 revolution, has been increasingly dissatisfied with the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization, broadcasting a possible withdrawal should Armenia’s collective safety concerns remain unheeded.
Armenia challenges Russian military presence by requesting the withdrawal of ‘peacekeepers’ stationed at a local airport since independence.
This longstanding Russian military presence has been a point of contention amidst regional conflicts.
Amid internal reforms, Pashinyan’s discussions with Stoltenberg also covered Armenian initiatives in anti-corruption, democratic institution building, and rule of law adherence.
Despite close historical ties with Russia, Armenia has increasingly sought Western integration, including pursuing EU membership and adhering to the International Criminal Court, much to Moscow’s disapproval.
The effectiveness of Russian ‘peacekeeping’ is questioned as Azerbaijan advances in Nagorno-Karabakh.
With aggressive moves in September 2023, Azerbaijan’s actions suggest a definitive resolution to its territorial claims is sought.
FAQ
- Why did NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg visit Armenia?
- Stoltenberg visited Armenia to discuss South Caucasus regional stability, Armenia’s contributions to NATO peacekeeping missions, and to support the country’s peace aspirations and reforms.
- What is the significance of NATO’s support for Armenia?
- NATO supports Armenian sovereignty and its endeavours towards regional stability and peace. This is significant as Armenia reconsiders its ties with Russia and seeks closer relationships with Western entities.
- Has Armenia’s participation in the CSTO changed?
- Armenia has expressed discontent with the CSTO and has threatened to exit the alliance if it doesn’t adequately address Armenia’s security concerns.
- What did Jens Stoltenberg say about Armenia’s support for Ukraine?
- Stoltenberg commended Armenia for showing solidarity with Ukraine and stressed that other partners should do the same to support Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Conclusion
Jens Stoltenberg’s historic visit to Armenia signifies a potential pivot in Yerevan’s strategic orientation amid its growing disenchantment with Russian alliances. NATO’s endorsement of Armenian sovereignty and reform efforts underscores the importance placed on stable partnerships in the volatile South Caucasus region. As global power dynamics shift, Armenia’s engagement with NATO and its contemplation of EU membership reveal a delicate balancing act between traditional ties and new allegiances.
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