Addressing the first International Conference of Caspian Provincial Governors, held in Iran’s northern city of Rasht on Tuesday, Araqchi said Iran’s position along both the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea is strategically important.

Iran shares borders with 15 nations, which gives added significance to cooperation in these northern and southern maritime zones, he added.

Describing the Caspian Sea as a vital sphere for Iran and its littoral neighbors, Araqchi said Tehran maintains well-established and growing relations with all Caspian coastal countries.

Referring to close ties with Russia, Araqchi noted that last year the presidents of the two countries signed major agreements, and that political, economic, and international exchanges are ongoing.

He also mentioned reciprocal high-level visits, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s trip to Russia, and upcoming visits planned with the Republic of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan.

The Iranian foreign minister stated that cooperation among the heads of Caspian states is close and that economic and trade collaboration between coastal states holds exceptional importance, with the potential to generate major development opportunities for all parties.

On environmental issues, Araqchi expressed concerns over marine pollution in the Caspian Sea and called for joint action by the littoral countries. He expressed hope that the summit’s discussions would further promote cooperation in environmental protection and the management of maritime resources.

He also highlighted the importance of collaboration among the neighboring provinces in the Caspian coastal countries, noting that repeated joint meetings between border provinces could strengthen the local and regional ties.