Baku: Iran's Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has condemned foreign interference in regional matters, asserting that external nations should not meddle in the region. Speaking at the 15th Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) plenary session in Baku, Ghalibaf met with Sahiba Gafarova, the Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament, to discuss strengthening ties between their countries.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Ghalibaf emphasized that enhancing relations with neighboring countries is a key policy for Iran, highlighting the inherent friendship between Iran and Azerbaijan. He stressed the importance of deepening this friendship and continuing the development of economic and transit relations. Ghalibaf called for resolving regional issues within the region and urged the development of parliamentary relations to facilitate economic ties.

Ghalibaf proposed improvements in border and road relations, the creation of border bazaars, and the facilitation of travel. He also suggested increasing flights between Tehran and Baku to boost trade between the two countries. In response, Gafarova expressed support for the 3+3 talks policy, emphasizing the importance of multilateral and bilateral relations. She affirmed that regional issues should be resolved by regional countries.

The 15th plenary session of the APA, chaired by Azerbaijan, commenced in Baku, gathering a delegation of 35 and nearly 280 representatives to discuss several important issues. The APA serves as a vital platform for parliamentary diplomacy, uniting Asian parliaments to foster dialogue among member countries.

In related news, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi announced that Iran will assume the APA chairmanship in 2027-2028, while Azerbaijan currently holds the presidency of the international body.