A ‘powerful’ Iran ensures regional security
An Iranian parliamentarian emphasized the pivotal role of the Islamic Republic in the region, asserting that the presence of a “powerful” Iran serves as a guarantor of the security of the region.
In an exclusive interview with Iran Daily, Mahmoud Abbaszadeh Meshkini said, “Our neighboring countries should realize that having the powerful Islamic Republic in the region helps to ensure the security of other countries.”
The Islamic Republic of Iran has always stood by all oppressed and free nations as well as all Shias, Muslims, and liberation movements worldwide, he said, adding, “Even if challenges arise in Iran’s relations with some neighbors, the Islamic Republic will never forsake its neighbors and, when necessary, will not hesitate to provide any assistance.”
Emphasizing ties with the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Iranian lawmaker said the Islamic Republic, in its foreign policy approach, aims to strengthen relations with all neighbors. However, due to shared interests and other agreements between Iran and Azerbaijan, we hold a special focus on the comprehensive development of cooperation with the neighboring country.
Meshkini added that Iran’s foreign diplomacy approach is based on the development and deepening of relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan. The member of Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee stressed the importance of both sides addressing obstacles and misunderstandings in their bilateral relations.
Referring to the deep cultural and historical ties between the two neighboring countries, the member of Iran-Azerbaijan parliamentary friendship group emphasized the need to thwart the efforts of enemies and hostile regimes in the region, who are trying to destabilize the relationship between the two countries.
“Today, many tensions between friendly neighboring countries are the result of psychological warfare propagated by opposing media, attempting to blur the boundaries of friendship between neighbors through resorting to false and unreal news channels,” the Iranian lawmaker said.
The Iranian parliamentarian highlighted the economic capacities of both countries, saying, “The two countries possess excellent potentials in this regard, and by relying on them, they can significantly increase the volume of trade and economic collaborations to several billion dollars.”
A total of 120,125 tons of goods were transported between Iran and Azerbaijan through the Astara Railroad Terminal from March 21-May 21, 2023, according to a local rail official.
The figure indicates an 81 percent rise compared to the corresponding figure for the preceding year, which was 66,638 tons. Meshkini also expressed his country’s readiness to contribute to Azerbaijan in areas such as providing technical engineering services, manufacturing automobiles and various industries, as well as exporting agricultural products. “Iran can offer many products and services at a more competitive price than other countries. Conversely, Iran can leverage Azerbaijan’s capabilities for mutual benefit,” he concluded.