Relations Between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Armenia (1991—2011)

Abstract

The article is devoted to an analysis of the relations between the Republic of Armenia (RA) and the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI), one of the key players in the South Caucasus. Based on documents and research literature, the processes of establishing qualitatively new relations between Iran and Armenia after the restoration of independence of Armenia, in 1991—2011, are highlighted. The nature of the new strategy of the IRI in relation to the countries of the region is shown. Iran’s efforts aimed at maintaining stable peace in the region, in particular its mediation mission regarding the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, as well as its generally restrained, balanced and impartial position, are noteworthy. The processes of establishing political and diplomatic relations between the IRI and the RA are emphasized. The purpose of the study is to consider the nature and features of relations between Armenia and Iran in the post-Soviet years. The research is based on materials from the state diplomatic archive of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, as well as materials of the Iranian-Armenian press devoted to this issue. The study of the modern historical period of Armenian-Iranian relations has been conducted by a number of authors, but this article examines a full, comprehensive range of regional security issues. In the first three decades of the 21st century, interstate relations between the RA and the IRI provided the opportunity to create rich, multidisciplinary cultural, scientific and educational programs.