Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan today received Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Greeting the foreign minister, Pashinyan stated the following: “We have many important issues to discuss, including the development and deepening of the bilateral ties. I believe stability, peace and sustainable development in the region are in the domain of our common interests. Of course, the relations between Armenia and Iran are hinged on the traditional friendship, and Armenia is always glad to receive representatives of Iran in Armenia and at government.”
“I express gratitude to you for providing me and my colleagues with the opportunity to meet you. President Rouhani conveyed his warm greetings to you and wished you good health and success. Armenia is the good neighbor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and we have very cordial ties with Armenia. Iran has great respect for you and your courage for taking the step for peace.
Iran and Armenia share concerns in the region. Since the very first day of the conflict [Nagorno-Karabakh conflict], Iran has been in touch with Armenia and other countries of the region and would like to maintain the relations. Of course, you know the stance of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the crisis — observance of international law, protection of peoples, protection of minorities, as well as protection of territorial integrity and no use of force. Of course, you are also aware that the Iranian spiritual leader insists that the security of Armenians must be maintained. You also know that Iran hosts Armenians and is always ready to serve them,” Zarif said.
The Prime Minister of Armenia and Iran’s foreign minister exchanged views on the situation created in the region following the war in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and the developments. Pashinyan stated that many issues remain unsolved, including the status of Nagorno-Karabakh, and Armenia is ready to continue the talks within the scope of the Co-Chairmanship of the OSCE Minsk Group.
The interlocutors also exchanged views on humanitarian issues. Pashinyan emphasized that the return of prisoners of war remains a key priority, and Zarif stated that Iran understands Armenia’s concerns and is ready to assist in the humanitarian efforts.
Pashinyan and Zarif also touched upon the agenda of bilateral relations and the prospects for the development of economic cooperation. They attached importance to the de-blockage of transport and economic communication paths in the region which will help increase the volumes of realization of the existing economic potential.
