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Iranian FM begins two-leg visit to Egypt, Lebanon
Iran’s Foreign Ministry’s spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei on Sunday told reporters that Araghchi's visit to Egypt and Lebanon “is aimed at discussing bilateral relations, consulting on the latest situation in the region, especially developments in Palestine, and consulting on international developments."
According to Mohammad Hossein Soltani-Fard, head of Iran’s Interests Section in Cairo, Araghchi is scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, and prominent political and economic figures.
He said Araghchi’s visit to Cairo takes place at the invitation of his Egyptian counterpart.
Highlighting the “clear objectives” of the visit, the envoy emphasized that ongoing regional crises—including the Gaza war, Israeli military aggression, and the conflicts in Sudan and Libya—call for dialogue and negotiations among “influential and impactful” nations.
Regarding Tehran-Cairo relations, he noted that progress has been steady, with regular consultations and intensive discussions between the foreign ministers of the two countries. Soltani-Fard said he hopes Iran and Egypt will take the “final steps” toward enhancing relations in the very near future.
Iran and Egypt, two influential Muslim-majority countries, have experienced strained relations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
A key source of tension was Egypt's decision to grant asylum to the deposed West-backed Iranian dictator, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, as well as recognition of the Israeli regime through the 1978 Camp David Accords.
Relations between the two countries saw a marked improvement after the ouster of longtime Egyptian dictator Hosni Mubarak during the 2011 Arab Spring.
“Iran has supported Egypt's stance against the forced migration of Gaza’s people and its efforts to secure a ceasefire. Egypt plays a crucial role in this regard,” he added.
Talks are also underway to finalize arrangements for direct flights between the two countries. The top Iranian diplomat will later travel to Lebanon for talks with Lebanese officials.