President Hails Iran’s Friendly Ties with Azerbaijan Ahead of Visit to Baku
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian highlighted the amicable and deep-rooted relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan, urging efforts to protect the bilateral ties from divisive issues.
The Iranian president on Sunday had an interview with the Republic of Azerbaijan’s state TV in Tehran on the eve of his state visit to the neighboring country.
“We love our brothers and sisters in the Republic of Azerbaijan with all our hearts; we consider them part of ourselves. We wish success, dignity, and prosperity for all our dear friends,” Pezeshkian said, his website reported.
He emphasized that if Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan deepen their relations, they will be able to broaden collaboration within regional and international organizations.
“This, in turn, would enable both nations to bolster their economic strength and gain valuable access to regional knowledge, innovations, and technologies,” Pezeshkian added.
Asked about the prospect of Iran-Azerbaijan ties, the president stated that Tehran is prepared to share experiences and achievements with Baku.
He also highlighted the importance of closer cooperation across various sectors, including academia, healthcare, industry, trade, investment, culture, sports, and the arts, to foster mutual growth and understanding.
Pezeshkian emphasized that political dialogue between the officials of the two countries is essential for ensuring a good and peaceful life for their peoples, adding that as neighbors, Iran and Azerbaijan Republic can mutually support each other across a wide range of sectors.
He expressed pleasure at visiting Baku and expressed hope that discussions with his Azeri counterpart Ilham Aliyev, along with meetings between the officials of the two countries, would contribute to stronger bilateral ties.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the railroad link between Iran and Azerbaijan Republic, President Pezeshkian said the transport corridor significantly enhances trade, economic, and cultural relations between the two countries.
He noted that Azerbaijan Republic could serve as a vital transit route between Iran and Russia, while Iran could act as a key transit hub for Azerbaijani goods destined for global markets via the Persian Gulf.
Pezeshkian also pointed to the potential for joint clean energy projects along the Aras River, highlighting the opportunities for cooperation in developing solar and wind energy resources.
Commenting on the peace process between Azerbaijan Republic and Armenia, the president said Iran consistently supports the rights of both neighbors and is committed to facilitating peaceful coexistence.
Regarding the disputes over the Zangezur Corridor, Pezeshkian stressed the necessity of respecting territorial integrity. He asserted that border and territorial issues between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Armenia can be resolved through political and trade relations on the basis of mutual respect for each side’s rights.
The president finally underscored the critical importance of securing the road connecting Nakhchivan and Azerbaijan Republic via Iran, expressing hope that completing the corridor would resolve the existing connectivity challenges.
