Registration at: https://uni-jena-de.zoom-x.de/meeting/register/_JQ32QDdTO–gvE2lrwROw

In this online event (22, June, 3 pm), we take a closer look at Armenian-Iranian relations through two complementary lenses: the geopolitical and foreign policy dimension, and the societal and transnational dimension.

Armenian-Iran state relations which have focused on economic cooperation, trade, and transport have stayed stable and friendly despite significant regional and geopolitical shifts over the past decades. The two countries are also connected through transnational ties shaped by the presence of longstanding diaspora and bi-national communities. In recent years, these relations have become more complex. In light of Armenia’s diversification of its foreign relations and its attempts to reduce its dependence on Russia following the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, it has strengthened its ties with the United States and the European Union. Since the start of the US-Israeli led war in Iran, Armenia has been confronted with a wave of escalations between strategic partners while preserving its regional relationships.

While often overshadowed by questions of high politics, at the core of conflict and geopolitical shifts have been people and thus, societal interactions are essential for understanding the resilience and continuity of bilateral relations. The discussion will consequently explore the transnational dimensions of Armenia-Iran relations, focusing on cross-border movements, local communities, and people-to-people connections, and examine how these have been affected by recent political developments.

Speakers:
Dr. Gevorg Avetikyan (Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient)
Dr. Alen Shadunts (American University of Armenia)
Prof. Claudia Yaghoobi (Roshan Distinguished Professor, Department of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of North Carolina)

Moderator:
Dr. Erik Davtyan (University of Jena)