Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi addressed the latest regional developments on the “Diplomatic Table” program.
He noted that the issue of the connection between Nakhichevan and the mainland of Azerbaijan has become a strategic and sensitive issue in recent years.
“This has caused great concern both for us and for other countries in the region, due to the possibility of geopolitical changes,” he said.
According to Araghchi, the primary concern is that geopolitical changes will occur in the region due to this issue. “What do we mean by geopolitical changes? Changing internationally recognized borders, moving borders, or violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region, such as using part of Armenia’s territory, could lead to occupation, border changes, or weakened sovereignty.
We have clearly stated in advance that we will not tolerate such a thing, and our policy has always been clear. We have taken actions to demonstrate our determination. Currently, our position is the same: we do not accept geopolitical changes in the region.”
Araghchi said that a statement was signed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which clearly states that both sides accept the inviolability of the region’s borders. “In this regard, our geopolitical concerns seem to be temporarily resolved. However, we will certainly monitor the extent to which these commitments will be maintained or what further developments will occur.”
According to Araghchi, this road could cause some economic damage to Iran, as it could reduce the importance of the transit route passing through that country. “However, it depends on us how to increase the attractiveness of this road so that more transport flows pass through it.”
“But we cannot prohibit any country from building a road on its territory as long as this road is under the full sovereignty and legislation of Armenia. From the point of view of international law, we cannot raise objections,” he said.
