We have openly and clearly expressed our concerns regarding possible scenarios of the TRIPP project. At the same time, we are confident that we will be able to jointly manage any challenges in this regard in a constructive atmosphere. The Iranian ambassador to Armenia, Khalil Shirgholami, told this to reporters on Friday.

“It is important for us [i.e. Iran] that during the discussion of the TRIPP project or any other matter, the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Armenia are respected. It is also important that no third party can create a challenge for the strategic relations between Armenia and Iran.

We will remain committed to this approach during the discussions and further work between the two countries. I am confident that as a result of constant contacts, we will be able to resolve any issue,” Shirgholami noted. He added that Iran wants a format to be created within the framework of which it will be possible to hold discussions with Armenia. According to the Iranian diplomat, this will help to resolve any problem very quickly as soon as it arises.

“We [i.e. Iran] do not have a biased approach, we have serious concerns. We expect assurances from Armenia that there will be no foreign forces on the border of Iran and Armenia, and no one will be able to create a threat to Iran in the border and adjacent territories.

Armenia’s officials have repeatedly assured at the highest level that there will be no such precedents. In this regard, we perceive mutual trust as a guarantee that this project will not deviate from its course and will not create a threat to Iran,” the Iranian diplomat emphasized.

He noted that the technical issues of the TRIPP project are under discussion, and it is important what mechanisms will be used during its implementation, since it is on the basis of these mechanisms that guarantees are formed that the principle of territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Armenia will be preserved within the framework of the project.

“These mechanisms should be a guarantee that no corridor will be created that is outside the jurisdiction of the country. Guarantees that there will be no foreign forces within the framework of this project are also important.

We [i.e. Iran] hope that the [Armenian] government will demonstrate a vigilant and cautious approach in developing these mechanisms, for the benefit of Armenia," concluded the Iranian ambassador to Armenia.