Yerevan: Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi says Iran welcomes an agreement reached between the Republics of Armenia and Azerbaijan on the text of a historic peace treaty.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Araqchi, who is in Yerevan on an official visit, expressed this sentiment during a joint press conference with his Armenian counterpart, Ararat Mirzoyan. The conference, held on Tuesday, highlighted Iran’s encouragement for Armenia and Azerbaijan to formalize the agreement promptly. Araqchi emphasized that such a move would significantly enhance peace, stability, and economic development in the region.
Armenia and Azerbaijan have been embroiled in a prolonged conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region for nearly forty years. In a pivotal moment in 2020, Azerbaijan launched a military operation, gaining control over approximately a third of Nagorno-Karabakh. This escalation led to the displacement of nearly 100,000 Armenians who fled to Armenia as refugees.
Araqchi reiterated Iran’s commitment to supporting the independence and territorial integrity of regional countries, opposing any alterations to their international borders. He stressed the importance of resolving regional issues through dialogue and diplomacy rather than force. Araqchi also underscored Iran’s support for economic collaboration, advocating for the opening of communication and transportation routes between regional states.
Prior to the press conference, Araqchi and Mirzoyan engaged in a meeting to discuss significant bilateral and regional matters. The Armenian foreign minister hosted Araqchi for a working dinner on Monday night, shortly after his arrival in Yerevan. Additionally, Araqchi met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during his visit.