Abu Dhabi:President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized Iran's strategic importance in connecting Central Asia and Eurasia to open waters during the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Pezeshkian, attending the summit as the first invited special guest, highlighted the potential for enhancing cooperation through Iran's participation. He underscored Iran's capacity to bolster the region's economic and connectivity resilience.

Pezeshkian discussed the necessity of addressing war, crises, and external pressures, advocating for regional cooperation over competition. He noted Iran's southern ports, particularly Chabahar, as vital gateways to South Asia, Africa, and Europe.

He proposed a 'CIS+1' cooperation framework to foster collaboration in transit, energy, trade, investment, and other sectors. Pezeshkian called for building interdependence and security through mutual trust and shared interests.