Iran Stands Firm: Protecting Strong Ties with Armenia Against Adversaries, Says Top Security Official

In a significant diplomatic move, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali-Akbar Ahmadian has called for strengthened cooperation between Iran and Armenia, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust relations despite external pressures. This initiative aims to fortify ties that are crucial for regional stability and peace.

During a meeting on Sunday with Armenian counterpart Armen Grigoryan, who attended the Tehran Dialogue Forum, Ahmadian articulated Iran’s commitment to fostering positive relations with its neighbors. He stated, “One of Iran’s key policies is to maintain good relations with all its neighbors,” despite the reality that “foreign powers are not interested in lasting peace in the region.”

Ahmadian highlighted several key points regarding Iran-Armenia relations:

• Historical and Geographical Commonalities: Emphasizing the natural connections between the two nations.
• Unrestricted Cooperation: Stressing the need for both countries to strengthen their ties without limitations.
• Regional Peace and Stability: Advocating that comprehensive cooperation benefits both nations and the broader region.

Grigoryan shared Ahmadian’s perspective and underscored the importance of enhancing economic and trade relations. He remarked, “The development of our relations is not dependent on the will of others.” He also expressed appreciation for Iran’s support, noting Armenia’s benefits from “the technical and engineering expertise of Iranians,” particularly through private companies involved in various development projects.

Addressing the Tehran Dialogue Forum, Grigoryan noted the absence of obstacles in developing bilateral relations, stating, “We have shown how neighbors can cooperate with each other, how solutions can be found for many problems, and how we can cooperate.”

He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to establish peace in the region, aligning with President Masoud Pezeshkian’s opening address at the forum. Grigoryan declared that the “Zangezur Corridor,” which was initially proposed by Azerbaijan, no longer exists. However, he reassured that Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative remains active, aiming to remove barriers and enhance economic infrastructure to attract investment and promote regional stability.

Additionally, Grigoryan praised the Armenian community in Iran, viewing it as a vital platform for elevating Armenia-Iran relations to new heights.