Alok Bansal, Director of India Foundation Research Center, answered the questions of the Orbeli Analytical Center related to the humanitarian crisis in Artsakh caused by the blockade of Lachin Corridor, the military and political tension in the region, as well as Armenia-India relations[1] 

– In recent years new momentum has been given to Armenian-Indian relations. In October 2021, the Indian Foreign Minister visited RA for the first time in history. In their turn, the Foreign Minister and Defense Minister of Armenia also visited India. The press also writes about bilateral deals in the military sector. In your opinion, what is the potential of Armenian-Indian relations and what should the two countries do to promote them?

– India has been emerging as a base for the defense industry. Armenia has some expertise in the field as a legacy from the Soviet days. The two countries can collaborate to set up production facilities in India. Armenia could consider importing some military hardware, especially, helicopters, tanks and missiles. Armenia could also look at Indian military aircraft in production as well as those being developed. However, the strongest component of India Armenia relations will always be historical cultural connect and that needs to be promoted more.

– The North-South highway is being built in Armenia, thanks to which Armenia can become one of the key routes of the North-South international corridor. What is India's view on using the Armenian route and what kind of participation can it have in the construction of the North-South highway?

– India is extremely interested in the route and is willing to support the project, but at the moment the project appears to be affected by various bottlenecks.

– After the September attack of Azerbaijan against Armenia, at the extraordinary session of the UN Security Council, the permanent representative of India called for the aggressor to immediately stop the military operations and observe the ceasefire. What is the significance of the South Caucasus for India, and how can New Delhi support the restoration of the balance of power in the region?

– India has always supported peace and has good relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan and would like the two countries to amicably resolve the issue bilaterally or with the support of other former Soviet states

– Since December 12, Azerbaijan has closed the Lachin Corridor connecting  Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) to Armenia, as a result of which 120,000 residents of Artsakh are under blockade. They are denied access to medicine, food and other humanitarian assistance. What is the level of awareness of the issue in India and how can India contribute to resolving this crisis?

– Regrettably, the issue has not gained adequate traction in India. As a humanitarian step, I would appeal to the international community to ensure that the Lachin corridor is reopened for all humanitarian supplies. Armenia needs to take steps to publicize the issue adequately.

[1] The views expressed above do not reflect the position of India or India Foundation, but are solely the author’s personal observations.