Armenia's recent parliamentary election secured Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan a majority, reinforcing his mandate to pursue a foreign policy pivot away from Russia and toward closer ties with the European Union and neighbouring countries Azerbaijan and Turkey. Despite Russian efforts to influence the vote, Armenians supported Pashinyan’s vision amid setbacks in security guarantees following the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Significantly, Pashinyan has engaged in a delicate diplomatic rapprochement with Azerbaijan, exemplified by a peace accord brokered last year, and has initiated steps towards improved relations with Turkey, including proposals to reopen century-old border crossings. These efforts indicate a conscious attempt by Armenia to reconcile with historical grievances and focus on future cooperation.

This evolving context offers a relevant example for Cyprus, where recent diplomatic initiatives aim to restart negotiations over the long-standing Cyprus problem. Experts suggest that Cyprus needs political courage and visionary leadership to move beyond entrenched positions, embracing reconciliation efforts even while acknowledging historical wounds, to build a shared and stable future for all communities on the island.