TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araguchi has reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to extending his formal celebration to Uruguay’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Mario Robotkin, and deepening ties with Latin America.
The gesture highlights Iran’s strategic push to expand partnerships in regions historically dominated by US influence, and exploits opposition that shares Western sanctions and mutual willingness to economic diversify.
In his message, Aragut highlighted more than 120 years of “historical relations” between Iran and Uruguay, expressing his hopes for a “new chapter” in bilateral cooperation.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran is committed to taking advantage of opportunities to strengthen relations and mutual benefits of both people,” he declares, implying undeveloped economic and diplomatic synergies.
The two countries solidified their modern partnership in 1983 at the opening of the mutual embassy. This is a milestone that laid the foundation for recent trade growth.
Uruguay has emerged as a major supplier of Iranian agricultural products, including Iran, wool and soybeans.
Diplomatic exchanges such as Uruguay’s ministerial visits from 2011 to 2012 and Iranian mutual delegation to Montevid in 2012 are further linked. The two countries have also cooperated within 77 groups and advocated for the interests of the global South at the United Nations.
Latin America: Iranian Theater of Opportunity
Iran’s warm message to Uruguay is in line with a broader strategy to offset US sanctions through Latin American alliances.
“Latin America is geopolitical,” said Davoud Salehi, former director of Latin America at Iran’s Foreign Ministry. “Despite US efforts to limit our impact, we have promoted a resilient partnership.”
The basis of this strategy, Venezuela is partnering with Iran on petroleum infrastructure projects, including refinery reconstruction and engineering services.
“Collaboration is essential by sharing Venezuela’s vast reserves and resistance to sanctions,” Salech said, referring to a joint venture in tractor manufacturing launched under Hugochavez.
Similarly, Iran sees Cuba as a hub for biotechnology and agricultural innovation, areas where mutual expertise can lead to breakthroughs.
Salehi emphasized that Western sanctions have inadvertently driven Iran to diversify its alliance. “We have new partners in our neighborhood and beyond,” he said, pointing out Latin America, Africa and even Europe.
The logistical challenges last for Iranian companies in distant markets, but Salehi has encouraged proactive diplomacy.
Tehran argues that involvement in Latin America takes precedence over the outcomes that are beneficial to both sides. In countries such as Uruguay, cooperation provides access to the Iranian market and diplomatic support at multilateral forums.
For Iran, it represents a symbolic and strategic violation of what experts call “US backyards.”
The challenge includes US pressure on local governments to limit relations with Iran. But Salehi remains optimistic: “Diplomatic creativity can overcome barriers. The focus on human rights and equitable growth resonates worldwide.”