Iran’s Bold Strategy: Expanding Regional Ties with Neighbors, Says Leader

In a significant diplomatic engagement, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, reaffirmed that expanding ties with neighboring countries is the “definite policy” of the Islamic Republic during a meeting with Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Tehran.

The Emir’s official visit to Tehran included discussions with President Masoud Pezeshkian before his meeting with Ayatollah Khamenei. During their conversation, Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted several key points:

• Expansion of Neighborhood Relations: Khamenei noted that the Pezeshkian administration is committed to enhancing ties with neighboring countries.
• Progress Achieved: He acknowledged the significant steps already taken to strengthen relations with Iran’s neighbors.
• Hope for Agreements: The Leader expressed optimism that the agreements made earlier would enable both nations to fulfill their “neighborly duties” more effectively.

Ayatollah Khamenei referred to Qatar as a “friendly and brotherly country,” despite some “unclear and unresolved” issues, particularly concerning approximately $6 billion in Iranian assets frozen under U.S. sanctions. These funds, recently released by South Korea, are currently held in a Qatari bank.

He criticized the United States for hindering the return of these funds to Iran, stating, “We know that the U.S. is the main obstacle to the implementation of an agreement that had been reached in this regard.” Ayatollah Khamenei urged Qatar to resist U.S. pressure and facilitate the return of Iran’s assets.

In response, Qatar’s Emir expressed his satisfaction with the discussions held with Ayatollah Khamenei, commending Iran’s support for the Palestinian people. He acknowledged the ongoing tensions in the West Asia region and emphasized the need for regional countries to collaborate more closely to address the current challenges.

Furthermore, the Emir mentioned the agreements reached during the visit, indicating that Iran and Qatar will soon establish a joint commission aimed at increasing the volume of bilateral trade.