Iran-Azerbaijan relations of strategic importance, ambassador says
Iranian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Mohsen Pak Ayin has written an article for the Iran newspaper in connection with the visit of the head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev to the Islamic Republic.
"The visit, which took place at the invitation of the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Saeed Jalili, is a major step in the development of cooperation between Iran and Baku," Pak Ayin said in the article. "Without a doubt, the relations between Iran and Azerbaijan are strategic, and given the many similarities of the country, it is necessary to develop them. I am glad that in the recent months, both sides appeared eager to use the opportunity to strengthen relationships and this is an indication of the need for the establishment of links. Indeed, the leaders of both countries paved the way with their foresight for the development of relations, and we have seen a lot of work done in this area over recent months. Participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan at a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in Tehran, Azerbaijan's accession to the movement and the visit of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Seyyed Abbas Arakchi to Baku to hold meetings in a positive environment, the speedy arrival of a new Iranian ambassador and the quick acceptance of his credentials, the participation of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Baku and the discussions held in conditions of mutual trust marked the beginning of a new activity for the development of relations."
The Ambassador noted that the February visit of Saeed Jalili in Baku and the meeting with the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev also marked a new stage in the development of relations. "It is a measure of mutual trust between the two countries. Of course, some forces with the support of third countries have tried to spoil relations between Iran and Azerbaijan in recent weeks; however, thanks to the vigilance of officials of the two countries, they did not succeed."
"There is a great potential between Iran and Azerbaijan for the development of relations. This potential, contributing to the convergence of the parties can turn them into strategic partners. Iran considers Azerbaijan as an important country in the region and a window to the Caucasus.
"Iran and Azerbaijan have land and sea borders. Therefore, Iran is interested in strengthening and developing relations in trade, transit and energy. Ramiz Mehdiyev's visit to Iran and his constructive talks with officials of the country, opening a new page in relations between the two countries, would pave the way for their development. Mutually beneficial ties between the two countries will lead to peace in the region and the Caucasus. This visit will strengthen the strategic position of Azerbaijan in Iranian foreign policy and take advantage of existing potential. Iran and Azerbaijan will become regular partners. Also, the media of both countries has played a major role in bringing about the truth in recent months. Scientists and intellectuals of both countries could play a constructive role in strengthening relations between Tehran and Baku. Without third-country influence, the relations between the two countries could serve peace and tranquility in the region and ensure their long-term interests," the article says.