Iran, second home of Azeris; President Pezeshkian speaks of inseparable ties with Azerbaijan

Pars Today – The President of the Islamic Republic of Iran spoke with the state television network of the Republic of Azerbaijan prior to his official visit to the country.

According to Pars Today, Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on Sunday held an interview with Azerbaijan's state television network, emphasizing the deep historical, cultural, and religious ties between the two nations. He stated: "Iran is the second homeland of the Azeri people, and we never feel like strangers in Azerbaijan." Expressing love and affection for the people of Azerbaijan, he announced efforts to strengthen bilateral relations in economic, cultural, scientific, and political fields. 

In this interview, Pezeshkian referred to his upcoming meeting with Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, and noted that strategic issues such as energy cooperation and the development of transit routes, including the Astara-Astara railway, are on the agenda. 

He emphasized that Iran, respecting the territorial integrity of all countries, supports the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. 

The President of Iran also highlighted the importance of parliamentary, academic, and cultural collaborations, stating: "We are ready for any form of cooperation with the Republic of Azerbaijan, and there are no limitations to our joint activities." 

Reciting a verse from Iranian poet Shahriar’s famous poem "Heydar Baba," Pezeshkian expressed his closeness to Azerbaijani culture, adding: "With all our hearts, we cherish our brothers and sisters in the Republic of Azerbaijan." 

Responding to a question about past incidents between the two countries, Pezeshkian stressed the need to prevent reckless actions from affecting bilateral relations, saying: "We must not allow the unprincipled behavior of a few to harm our fraternal ties." 

He also welcomed the mutual support between Iran and Azerbaijan in international forums such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, considering it a step toward strengthening regional cooperation. 

This interview took place on the eve of Pezeshkian’s trip to Baku, which analysts suggest could be a turning point in bolstering relations between the two neighbors and fostering stability in the region.

MG