Expert: Pakistan decided to establish ties with Armenia amid South Caucasus shifts

Cooperation with Azerbaijan holds a special place in Pakistan's foreign policy; the decision to establish diplomatic relations with Armenia was made by Islamabad after consultations with Baku and taking into account the changing situation in the South Caucasus, Basim Reza, a political scientist from Pakistan, told Report.

The political scientist emphasized that in connection with the changes in the South Caucasus, Pakistan decided to adjust its foreign policy: "With the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace agreement opening a new chapter in the South Caucasus, Pakistan has felt it appropriate to normalize relations with Yerevan as part of a broader effort to expand its diplomatic outreach."

The formal establishment of ties on August 31, 2025, at the SCO Summit in Tianjin reflects this pragmatism, he said.

"Importantly, Pakistan's leadership made clear that this step was taken while keeping in mind the evolving regional environment and in consultation with friends, including Azerbaijan," he noted.

"For decades, Pakistan refrained from recognizing Armenia in deference to Azerbaijan's position on Nagorno-Karabakh, and it was the only UN member state to do so. This was a clear demonstration of the depth of Pakistan–Azerbaijan brotherly ties, which remain strong and unaffected by this latest development."

Looking ahead, Pakistan views its engagement with Armenia as an opportunity to promote peace, stability, and cooperation in the wider region. Areas such as education, culture, tourism, and trade offer prospects for mutually beneficial interaction. At the same time, Islamabad remains fully committed to its deep strategic partnership with Baku, which rests on shared history, trust, and enduring common interests.

"In short, Pakistan's recognition of Armenia is not about shifting loyalties, but about widening diplomatic horizons in a changed environment. For Islamabad, the friendship with Azerbaijan continues to occupy a special place, while the opening to Armenia reflects a desire to contribute constructively to regional reconciliation and prosperity," he added.