Armenian Labour and Social Affairs Minister Narek Mkrtchyan asserted the strategic advantage of Armenia in offering Bharat an alternative sea trade route, mainly with Europe, during the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue in Bharat’s capital New Delhi.
“The Armenian Government is committed to forming partnerships in major regional and global projects like the North-South Transport Corridor or INSTC, the Gulf Black Sea transport, and the transit corridor, including the collaborative development of the Chabahar port with Bharat and Iran,” stated Mkrtchyan amidst the event.
Mkrtchyan further elaborated on the significance of this proposal, particularly in light of escalating tensions in traditional sea routes, such as those in the Red Sea, where numerous nations, including Bharat, seek alternative pathways amidst a series of attacks on commercial vessels.
Highlighting the commencement of Houthi attacks on commercial ships along Red Sea trade routes since mid-November, which the group attributed to its demands related to Israel’s offensive in Gaza and aid delivery to Palestinians, Mkrtchyan emphasised Armenia’s strategic position in proposing an alternative sea trade route to Bharat, especially with Europe.
Furthermore, the minister advocated for collaboration between Armenia and Bharat in the area of Artificial Intelligence or AI, proposing the establishment of a global coalition where ministers from both countries can engage in consultations and stimulate investments in AI ventures.
“Bilateral dialogue between Bharat and Armenia is conducted through mechanisms such as Foreign Office Consultations and the Inter-Governmental Commission on various aspects of cooperation,” affirmed the Ministry of External Affairs in an official release.
The ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue, a premier conference addressing global issues, commenced on Wednesday. It is slated to conclude on February 23. Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation or ORF, the event features Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as the chief guest and keynote speaker, drawing participation from ministers, national security advisors, senior officials, and representatives from various sectors worldwide.
