President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has made a direct appeal to India and other countries to stop military support to Armenia, citing significant national security risks for Azerbaijan. Speaking at an event before COP29 in Baku, Aliyev expressed concerns over the increasing militarization of Armenia, particularly highlighting the role of France, India, and Greece in supplying Armenia with advanced weaponry.
India, emerging as a significant arms supplier to Armenia, has agreements that include the sale of Pinaka rocket launchers and Akash missile systems. This military cooperation has escalated tensions, with Azerbaijan viewing the armament of Armenia as a direct threat.
Aliyev detailed his concerns during meetings and public statements, emphasizing the strategic challenges posed by Armenia’s military buildup. He noted that Armenia’s actions, such as troop concentrations along the border, are provocative and justify Azerbaijan’s heightened security measures.
The issue gained further attention when Azerbaijan’s Assistant on Foreign Policy Affairs, Hikmat Hajiyev, met with the Indian ambassador in Baku to discuss the concerns directly following the delivery of Pinaka launchers to Armenia. This dialogue underscores the seriousness with which Azerbaijan views the military collaboration between Armenia and India.
Additionally, Armenia’s recent procurement of French radar systems and intentions to acquire surface-to-air missiles have compounded the situation, illustrating a broader international involvement in the region’s military dynamics.
This development comes at a time when India’s engagement in the South Caucasus is growing, not only in defense but also in infrastructure, trade, and technology. How India will respond to Azerbaijan’s call for a halt in arms supplies remains to be seen, but the situation certainly highlights the intricate geopolitical entanglements in the region.
Leave a Reply