Tehran: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismaeil Baqaei has affirmed that any expansion of transport routes in the Southern Caucasus must not result in changes to recognized borders. During his weekly press briefing, Baqaei stressed Iran’s unwavering stance on maintaining geopolitical borders in the region.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei addressed key issues in the Southern Caucasus, particularly the peaceful resolution of disputes between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He highlighted Iran’s commitment to facilitating an agreement, emphasizing its potential to enhance regional stability. Baqaei urged Armenia to prioritize the resolution process.
On the subject of transit routes, Baqaei reiterated Iran’s support for economic growth and cooperation among regional countries. He insisted that such expansions should respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, avoiding any geopolitical shifts or border changes. Baqaei also cautioned against external interventions in regional affairs, underscoring Iran’s position against involvement by extra-regional actors.
Baqaei further commented on the authority of European parties in relation to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, asserting their lack of power to invoke the ‘snapback’ mechanism to reinstate sanctions. He warned against the misuse of this mechanism, suggesting it could lead to adverse consequences for European parties and Israel.
Addressing a recent terrorist incident in Zahedan, Baqaei condemned the attack and accused Israel of supporting anti-Iranian terrorist groups. He also criticized the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO, linking it to a unilateral approach and warning of its potential to embolden the Zionist regime.
Additionally, Baqaei mentioned ongoing efforts to establish a new cooperation framework with the International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.), in line with Iran’s parliamentary decisions following recent airstrikes. He reaffirmed Iran’s stance on Israel, denouncing its occupation of Palestinian territories and emphasizing the importance of Palestinian self-determination.
Baqaei also discussed Iran’s position on the Taliban’s recognition, stating that each nation’s decision is sovereign and that Iran maintains constructive relations with Afghanistan. He expressed skepticism about Israel’s commitment to ceasefire agreements and clarified that Iran currently has no plans to negotiate with the U.S., despite recent claims by a U.S. envoy.
Lastly, Baqaei dismissed comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s nuclear facilities, reiterating Iran’s right to uranium enrichment for peaceful purposes.