Iran and Armenia’s security issues: How to work with the natural ally

Iran can offer Armenia more than just regional influence; its ideology and political position allow it to be Armenia’s natural ally, which should be established at a legal level, Abraham Gasparyan, Director of Genesis Armenia Think Tank/Foundation, said during the podcast “Special Regime” aired on ABC Media.

The hosts discussed the impact of allied relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran on Armenia’s security policy, as well as the prospects for regional stability and strategic cooperation. These relations are of significant importance for Armenia’s foreign policy, as Iran can be a natural ally for Armenia not only in economic and political terms but also in security matters.

“I consider Iran to be our natural ally, and, in one way or another, in recent years this point has been proven not only theoretically but also practically. Iran’s place and role, regardless of the current regime, are vital for Armenians, primarily because our history is intertwined; we are friendly and brotherly peoples. In terms of statehood, Iran is about 500 years ahead of us, but overall we have many similarities, both culturally and historically,” Gasparyan said.

According to the political scientist, Iran has been under blockade for 47 years and, despite the complex situation, has managed to develop some of the world’s most powerful missile systems independent of oil and natural resources.

“In 1998, Khatami proposed a dialogue at the U.N., bringing Armenia as an example of the best model—in contrast to Samuel Huntington’s theory of the clash of civilizations,” Gasparyan noted.

Analyst Karen Bekaryan, Chair of the Board of INSIGHT analytical center, stated that there are all grounds to work with the Islamic Republic of Iran and achieve results in areas that are vital for Armenia.

Watch more in the video: