Armenias Pivot To The West By Richard Giragosian

Armenia’s Pivot to the West

Armenia’s shifting geopolitical alliances

Armenia is a small country in the South Caucasus region, bordered by Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Iran. Throughout its history, Armenia has been influenced by both the East and the West. In recent years, however, Armenia has increasingly pivoted towards the West, a shift that has been driven by a number of factors, including economic, political, and security concerns.

Armenia’s economic ties with the West

Armenia has strong economic ties with the West.

The European Union is Armenia’s largest trading partner, and Armenia has also benefited from significant financial assistance from the West.

In 2017, Armenia joined the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) bringing it closer to Russia. However, Armenia has continued to pursue closer economic ties with the West, signing a Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the EU in 2017.

Armenia’s political orientation

Armenia has a long history of close relations with Russia.

However, in recent years, Armenia has become increasingly critical of Russia’s policies in the region.

Armenia has also been drawn closer to the West by its desire to join the European Union. In 2013, Armenia signed an Association Agreement with the EU, which committed Armenia to adopting EU laws and standards.

Armenia’s security concerns

Armenia faces a number of security challenges, including the ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Armenia has also been concerned about Russia’s growing influence in the region.

In response to these challenges, Armenia has sought to strengthen its ties with the West, particularly with the United States and NATO.

The implications of Armenia’s pivot to the West

Armenia’s pivot to the West has a number of implications for the region.

First, it could lead to a further deterioration in relations between Armenia and Russia.

Second, it could make it more difficult for Armenia to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Third, it could lead to a greater Western presence in the South Caucasus region.

Conclusion

Armenia’s pivot to the West is a significant development that has the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus region. The implications of this shift are still unclear, but it is likely to have a major impact on Armenia’s relations with Russia, the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and the future of the South Caucasus region as a whole.