Dziunik Aghajanian - Armenia Azerbaijan Talks, Syria, Defense Politics, Civil Contract Strife | Ep 401 - Dec 22, 2024 [EP401]

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Guest:

• Amb. Dziunik Aghajanian

Topics:

• Armenian Azerbaijani Stalled Talks
• Fall of Syria
• Defense Politics
• Un-Civil Strife

Episode 401 | Recorded: December 24, 2024

Show Notes

In this episode of the Armenian News Network - Groong Week in Review, we speak with Ambassador Dziunik Aghajanian, a seasoned diplomat and former Armenian ambassador to the Netherlands, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This discussion delves into the most pressing geopolitical and domestic issues currently shaping Armenia’s future. Topics include poignant revelations about US plans to encircle Iran, Azerbaijan’s pivotal role in this strategy, and the broader implications for the South Caucasus.

Ambassador Aghajanian shares her unique insights into how these dynamics influence not only Armenia but also the regional balance of power. The conversation explores the historical context, current developments, and future trajectories that are critical for understanding the challenges facing Armenia today. Through her experienced perspective, we examine the intersection of Western interests, Russian influence, and local governance, gaining a deeper understanding of Armenia’s precarious position amidst competing global powers.

With critical analysis and nuanced discussion, this episode is essential listening for anyone interested in geopolitics, the South Caucasus, or international relations.

Topics Covered

• Stalled Armenian-Azerbaijani peace talks and Aliyev’s new preconditions, including demands for demilitarization and territorial concessions
• The Zangezur Corridor and its far-reaching implications for Armenian sovereignty and regional transportation
• The fall of Syria, its geopolitical repercussions, and its effect on Armenia and the wider Middle East
• Defense politics in Armenia: proposed military reforms, the reduction of mandatory service time, and concerns about demilitarization
• Western influence in Armenia: how global strategies and alignments are shaping the country’s domestic and foreign policies

Key Questions Discussed

• Are Armenia and Azerbaijan converging on a peace treaty, or is the process fundamentally stalled? What are the obstacles to progress?
• How does the so-called “Zangezur Corridor” factor into the broader geopolitical strategy of Turkey and Azerbaijan? What are its implications for regional security?
• What role does the fall of Syria play in reshaping power dynamics in the Middle East and the South Caucasus? How might this affect Armenia’s strategic options?
• Is Armenia’s reduction in mandatory military service a prelude to broader demilitarization, and what does this mean for national security?
• How are Western policies and strategic interests influencing Armenia’s political landscape, and what challenges does this pose for its sovereignty and independence?

Links Referenced During the Show

• Aliyev’s interview detailing preconditions for peace talks: Watch the interview
• RAND Corporation’s “Extending Russia” paper: View here

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Wrap-up

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That’s our Week in Review, we hope you found it helpful. We invite your feedback and your suggestions, you can find us on most social media and podcast platforms.

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