Daily Current Affairs : 6-October-2023
The recent exodus of thousands of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh following Azerbaijan’s military takeover has reignited global interest in this longstanding conflict. Often categorized as a “frozen conflict,” this territorial dispute has far-reaching implications, including for India’s strategic interests. Let’s delve into the historical context, recent developments, India’s stance, and the significance of the region in India’s global connectivity ambitions.
Historical Roots of the Conflict: Ethnic Complexities and Soviet Legacy
Nagorno-Karabakh, officially part of Azerbaijan, houses a predominantly ethnic Armenian population. This ethnic divide, compounded by religious differences (Armenians being Christians and Azeris Muslims), has been a major source of tension. The conflict traces back to the early 20th century when Soviet powers drew borders, leading to the region becoming an autonomous oblast within Azerbaijan. Tensions escalated in the late 1980s, eventually erupting into a full-scale war in the 1990s.
Escalation and Ceasefire: A Cycle of Conflict and Temporary Peace
In 1994, a ceasefire brokered by Russia granted Nagorno-Karabakh de facto independence. However, peace was short-lived. The conflict reignited in 2020, with Azerbaijan gaining control of the territory, triggering a humanitarian crisis due to blockades and shortages in essential supplies. The recent military offensive by Azerbaijan further exacerbated the crisis, compelling Armenians to flee the region.
India’s Neutral Stand: Nurturing Diplomatic Relations
India has maintained a neutral stance in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, refusing to take sides. Historically, India has deep-rooted ties with Armenia, dating back millennia, including trade relationships during the Mughal era. In contrast, relations with Azerbaijan are more recent, with instances like the ‘Ateshgah’ fire temple highlighting historical ties between Indian merchants and Azerbaijani cities.
Geopolitical Significance: India’s Stake in the Region
India’s Connectivity Aspirations:
- Armenia and Azerbaijan are vital members of the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a crucial trade route linking Russia and Europe through Central Asia and Iran.
- India supports Armenia’s proposal to include Iran’s Chabahar port in INSTC, enhancing connectivity options.
Tensions Impacting India:
- Tensions in the South Caucasus region directly affect India’s plans to bypass Pakistan, providing an alternative route for trade and diplomatic ties with Europe and Russia.
- Geographical proximity to Pakistan has posed challenges in India’s interactions with Azerbaijan.
Important Points:
- Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict Overview:
- Ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan.
- Conflict erupted in the 1990s, leading to de facto independence in 1994.
- Recent military offensive by Azerbaijan resulted in significant displacements.
- Historical Roots and Soviet Legacy:
- Nagorno-Karabakh’s placement within Azerbaijan despite ethnic Armenian majority.
- Soviet-era tensions escalated in the late 1980s, sparking a full-scale war.
- India’s Neutral Stance:
- India refrains from taking sides in the conflict, maintaining a neutral position.
- Deep-rooted historical ties with Armenia, dating back to ancient times.
- Relatively recent relations with Azerbaijan, exemplified by instances like the ‘Ateshgah’ fire temple.
- Geopolitical Significance for India:
- Armenia and Azerbaijan are integral members of the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
- India supports Armenia’s proposal to include Iran’s Chabahar port in INSTC for enhanced connectivity.
- Tensions in the South Caucasus region impact India’s plans to bypass Pakistan, affecting trade and diplomatic ties with Europe and Russia.
- Challenges and Diplomatic Strategies:
- The conflict highlights complexities in ethnic and territorial disputes.
- India’s approach involves balancing historical ties with pragmatic geopolitical interests.
- Engaging with regions like Nagorno-Karabakh remains crucial for shaping India’s global connectivity strategies.
Why In News
Thousands of Armenians have streamed out of Nagorno-Karabakh after the Azerbaijani military reclaimed full control of the breakaway region last month, seeking refuge in neighboring countries and sparking international concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region
MCQs about Navigating the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict
-
What is the primary cause of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
A. Religious differences between Christians and Muslims
B. Ethnic tensions between Armenians and Azeris
C. Political disputes within Armenia
D. Economic conflicts between neighboring nations
-
Why is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict considered a “frozen conflict”?
A. Because it primarily involves ideological differences
B. Due to its prolonged nature without a final resolution
C. Because it is geographically isolated
D. Because it has no impact on global politics
-
Which international corridor is Armenia keen on including in its connectivity plans with India?
A. Suez Canal Corridor
B. Pan-American Highway Corridor
C. International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
D. Trans-Siberian Railway Corridor
-
How does India perceive its ties with Armenia and Azerbaijan in light of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?
A. India supports Azerbaijan militarily and Armenia politically
B. India takes sides in the conflict to maintain regional stability
C. India maintains a neutral stance, balancing historical ties and geopolitical interests
D. India avoids diplomatic relations with both nations to prevent conflicts
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
