Iranian Ambassador: Armenia’s Territorial Integrity is Crucial for Iran
Yerevan, April 7 – Iran’s Ambassador to Armenia, Khalil Shirgholami, stated yesterday during an event at Yerevan State University that the territorial integrity of Armenia is of paramount importance to Iran. He emphasized that every country must recognize historical realities concerning territories and national identity, and Iran opposes any claims against Armenia.
Ambassador Shirgholami further added that peace and stability in the South Caucasus are among Iran’s most crucial interests. According to him, Iran’s strategy and priorities in the region are to ensure peace, stability, and development.
Regional Integration and the Role of Extra-Regional States
“We support integration processes in the region. We believe that while extra-regional states can contribute and pursue legitimate interests in the region, the driving forces for integration, development, and peace must be the countries of the region themselves,” Shirgholami noted.
He pointed out that Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, and Turkey can make positive contributions to the peace process, as well as to the economic well-being and prosperity of the countries in this region. The Ambassador clarified that other countries can also play a positive role if they do not pursue security, military, or geopolitical goals that are inconsistent with the interests of the region’s countries.
Iran’s Readiness for Dialogue and Cooperation
Shirgholami expressed Iran’s readiness to play an important role in this regard, reminding that Tehran maintains effective dialogue with the Armenian government on all these issues.
The Ambassador’s remarks underscore Iran’s consistent position on regional security and its commitment to fostering cooperation among neighboring states. This stance is particularly relevant given the ongoing geopolitical dynamics and various interests at play in the South Caucasus.
Iran’s Broader Regional Vision
Iran’s foreign policy in the South Caucasus is characterized by a desire to maintain stability, promote economic ties, and ensure the security of its borders. The emphasis on territorial integrity reflects a broader principle in Iranian diplomacy, advocating for the respect of international law and sovereign borders.
The statement also implicitly calls for a cautious approach from external actors, urging them not to introduce elements that could destabilize the region or undermine the interests of the local nations. This aligns with Iran’s long-standing policy of promoting regional solutions to regional problems.
The event at Yerevan State University served as a platform for reaffirming these key tenets of Iranian foreign policy, highlighting the enduring importance of Armenia as a strategic partner in the region.
Source: golosarmenii.am