Tehran: Deputy Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Brigadier General Mohammadreza Ashtiani has stated that the Republic of Azerbaijan holds an important and influential position in Iran's defense and foreign policy. Speaking in a meeting with his Azeri counterpart Brigadier General Farid Aliyev on Tuesday, Ashtiani described the South Caucasus as a security sensitive for the Islamic Republic of Iran. According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Ashtiani emphasized that developments in the South Caucasus region have a direct impact on the security of Iran, highlighting the significant role that the Republic of Azerbaijan plays in this context. He noted that the deep relations between Iran and Azerbaijan are pivotal in enhancing bilateral cooperation, which in turn facilitates the achievement of their mutual goals and national interests. Brigadier General Ashtiani further articulated that these interactions between the two nations are crucial in paving the way for their success in aligning with their st rategic objectives. Meanwhile, his Azeri counterpart, Brigadier General Farid Aliyev, pointed out the commonalities shared by the two countries. Aliyev stressed the importance of continued efforts to establish peace and stability in the region through cooperative measures. He cited the 4th joint commission meeting and joint military drills between Iranian and Azeri armed forces as examples of such collaborative efforts.