Tehran – Iran’s Deputy Minister Saeed Katibzadeh reaffirms the strategic importance of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Iran, highlighting the growing momentum of bilateral relations and the shared cultural and regional interests of both countries.
On Tuesday’s forum entitled “Relationship between Iran and Eisabaijan in the context of regional processes,” Katibzadeh, heading the Institute for Political Research at the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, symbolizes Tehran and Bakh being bound by historical ties, geographical proximity and general local suction.
“Azerbaijan holds a significant position in Iran’s neighbourhood policy, and the close relationships between our countries are rooted in shared values and mutual benefits,” Khatibzadeh said. “Recent developments have led us to a new and promising stage in our bilateral relationship.”
He described Iranian President Masudo Pezeshkian’s recent visit to Baku as a pivotal moment in this evolving relationship, calling it a “turning point of strategic dialogue and mutual trust.”
Khatibzadeh emphasized the need to remove artificial obstacles to the connections on both sides and raise cooperation to a higher level. “Current geopolitical and geopolitical changes in the region require adaptive and forward-looking policies. Artificial barriers need to be removed and natural connections must be maximized.”
He also welcomed the prospects for a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, saying Tehran supports diplomatic efforts to increase the stability of the region.
In a side job at the event, the Institute of Politics and International Studies (IPI) of the Iran and Azerbaijan’s Centre for International Relations Analysis has signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen academic cooperation and launch a joint project. The agreement was signed by Khatibzadeh and Farid Shafiev, chairs of the Azerbaijan Centre. Shafiyev also welcomed President Pezeschkian’s trip as a positive sign of revitalized strategic engagement and trust building.
On April 28, President Pezeshkian made an official visit to Azerbaijan at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev, making important progress in regional diplomacy. During his trip, Pezeschkian and Aliyev signed seven bilateral cooperation agreements aimed at expanding trade, economic cooperation and political coordination.
“Our visit is intended to strengthen relationships and set an example of constructive local engagement,” Pezeschkian said at the signing ceremony. “The agreement signed today will help our nation take new steps towards cooperation and regional integration.”
President Aliyev also expressed his satisfaction with the debate, describing them as fruitful and centred on mutual interest.
In related developments, Iranian government spokesman Fatem Mohajelani said on Tuesday that President Pezeshkian’s visit focused on joint commercial and investment initiatives. “This trip opened the door to increased bilateral investment and deeper economic involvement,” she said.
She added that as part of the ongoing cooperation, a daily direct flight between Tehran and Baku will soon be established.
Amin Taraf, an adviser to Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, told reporters on May 6 that direct flights between Tehran, Tabriz and Baku are planned in the near future.