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Context:

The Iran-Israel conflict prompted India to launch "Operation Sindhu" to facilitate the evacuation of its nationals via a land route through Armenia.  

About Armenia

It is a landlocked country located in the Armenian Highlands of Western Asia, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

It is situated in the South Caucasus region, bordered by Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the south, and Turkey to the west.

Yerevan is the capital, largest city and financial center.

Mount Aragats is the highest peak within its borders.

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world.

The vast majority of the population (over 95%) belongs to the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the most ancient Christian communities.  

India-Armenia Relations

Diplomatic Ties => Formal diplomatic relations were established in 1992. High-level visits have been consistent, and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the diplomatic schools of both nations in March 2025.

Defence and Security Cooperation => India has emerged as a primary defense supplier for Armenia, especially since 2020.

• Armenia has signed defense contracts worth over $1 billion with India, acquiring systems like the PINAKA multi-barrel rocket launchers, anti-tank missiles, radars, and artillery guns.
• Armenia is also reportedly interested in acquiring and upgrading Su-30MKI fighter jets and acquiring Indian-made missiles like the Astra.
• The partnership helps Armenia diversify its military procurement away from Russia and provides India with a strategic partner and a key market for its growing defense industry.

Economic and Trade Ties => Bilateral trade has shown robust growth, rising from $59 million in 2019 to $155.7 million by the end of 2023.

• India's exports include pharmaceuticals, machinery, and tea, while Armenia exports minerals and alcoholic beverages.
• There is growing cooperation in high-tech sectors like AI and IT, where Armenia's skilled workforce complements India's expanding tech industry.

Geopolitical Alignment => The partnership serves as a counterbalance to the strategic nexus between Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan.

• Armenia has consistently supported India's position on the Kashmir issue.
• Both nations see each other as partners in creating a multi-polar world order and collaborate in developing connectivity routes like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), where Armenia is a key node.

Source: 

INDIAN EXPRESS