Tuesday, February 6 2024 19:45

ArmInfo.Thanks to its independent foreign policy, Iran is developing balanced relations with countries in the region. Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani  stated on February 6 at a press conference in Yerevan.

At the same time, the diplomat proudly stated that relations between  Armenia and Iran developed dynamically throughout the entire period  of the existence of the third Republic in all areas of mutual  interest.

"The border between the two countries was the safest and the key to  the development of close contacts.  Fortunately, trade and economic  relations between our countries are developing dynamically. The  peoples of the two countries have always been close to each other,  both in days of joy and in days of sorrow," the Ambassador said, once  again expressing Iran's support for the territorial integrity and  sovereignty of Armenia.

He also added that Tehran is ready to make every effort to develop  bilateral relations.

When asked to express his attitude towards the "Crossroads of Peace"  project proposed by the Armenian government, the Ambassador noted  that Tehran welcomes and supports it. The diplomat stated that the  project is based on peace and respect for the territorial integrity  of the countries of the region.  "We consider Armenia's position  logical and consonant with international norms. We also welcome the  opening of transport routes, but only if this is done in the  interests of the countries of the region and while respecting their  sovereignty," he said.

The diplomat also commented on the issue of the transit of Indian  weapons for Armenia through Iranian territory.

Sobhani said that Iran stands for the strengthening of Armenia.  According to him, it is the balance of power in the region that will  contribute to regional peace. "Within this logic, Iran is ready to  provide any assistance to Armenia that will contribute to regional  peace and stability," he noted.

At the same time, in the context of Armenia's transit capabilities,  the diplomat stated that this is the best route to the North and the  Black Sea. He added that the route through Azerbaijan is longer, and  the Armenian route allows goods to be delivered two days faster.

Sobhani expressed the belief that in order to make the Armenian route  even more attractive, it is also necessary to review transit tariffs  and duties.

According to him, Iran is the best way to the south for Armenia as  well, including to the port of Chabahar.  "The main economic task is  to ensure cargo transportation and develop infrastructure to simplify  relations between the two countries," the diplomat said, pointing to  the work being carried out in this direction in the south of Armenia.