Taghribnews (TNA) - Iran Seeks Stronger Ties with Neighboring Nations: MFA Spox

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said Iran has never initiated severance of relations with its neighbors.

Iran Open to Improving Relations

Baghaei added, "The history of our relations with Morocco is clear. Iran has never initiated the severance of ties. This stance aligns with our longstanding policy, which we uphold in the Pezeshkian administration."
Baghaei stressed: "We will always welcome the improvement of relations with countries based on the principles of wisdom, dignity, and prudence, within the framework of national interests and considering the interests of the region and the Islamic world."

Iran Vows EU Sanction Retaliation

Responding to a query about the European Union's decision to sanction Iranian shipping lines, Baghaei noted, "Any inappropriate action against Iran's interests will surely be met with reciprocal measures from Iran."
He highlighted, "Disruptive actions by opposing parties through sanctions on various sectors of Iran's economy will not go unanswered."

European Countries Insist on Their Approach

Baghaei said, "As previously mentioned, given that Ukrainian officials themselves acknowledge that the claims regarding the transfer of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia are unfounded, it was expected that the previous sanctions based on this claim would be reconsidered."
The spokesman noted, "It appears that some European countries are insisting on a confrontational approach, which will benefit no one."

Iran Flags Nuclear Facility Threats

Baghaei, in response to a question regarding an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, said, "There are rules and regulations that prohibit the threat of using force against the nuclear facilities of countries, and it is emphasized that the Security Council is obliged to intervene."
He stated, "A threat against a country's nuclear facilities is considered a threat to international peace and security, as well as the security of nations."

Iran Condemns Israeli Presence at COP29

Baghaei, in response to a question about the presence of an Israeli delegation in Baku to participate in the COP29 summit, noted, "A regime that does not believe in the principles and objectives of the United Nations and peaceful coexistence in the international community, and whose existence means the violation of a nation's rights, fundamentally does not deserve to participate in international forums."
He added, "The UN Human Rights Rapporteur has also requested that countries collectively prevent the Israeli regime's membership in the United Nations. By the same logic, there is no necessity for this regime's presence in international forums that are meant to discuss international issues and problems. We welcome other countries joining this campaign."

Iran's Unwavering Support for Syria, Lebanon

He continued regarding Ali Larijani's recent trip to Syria and Lebanon: "Mr. Larijani's visit signifies the utilization of all the country's capacities to advance diplomatic goals. The message was that Iran continues to offer unwavering support to Syria and Lebanon against the ongoing aggressions of the Zionist regime."

Iran, Eurasian Economic Union's Potential

Baghaei added, "We began negotiations with the Eurasian Economic Union, which consists of five countries and holds significant potential, several years ago. The latest milestone is the signing of a cooperation document between the two parties. Once it is ratified by the Iranian Parliament and the counterparts, it will pave the way for substantial collaborative opportunities."

Iran Vows Retaliation to Israeli Threats

He noted, "The Zionist regime's threats against Iran are contrary to international law and will be responded to appropriately by Iran. In ongoing discussions as a member of the NPT, we addressed questions and ambiguities regarding our nuclear program, despite their lack of technical and precise basis. In the meeting between Grossi and the Foreign Minister, emphasis was placed on Iran's positive approach to addressing and resolving issues raised between Iran and the Agency."

Plans to Strengthen Trade Negotiations

Baghaei, discussing the diplomatic apparatus's plans to enhance commercial interactions with foreign countries, said, "Utilizing diplomatic capacities to boost Iran's trade relations with various countries has been a consistent topic in our diplomatic discussions with both regional and non-regional countries. BRICS and the Eurasian Economic Union are examples of this. The Economic Diplomacy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains continuous and targeted communication with the Trade Promotion Organization and has a specific plan to strengthen commercial attachés."

Regarding the status of Tehran-Beijing relations, he noted, "The relationship between Iran and China is strong, and both parties remain determined to utilize all capacities to deepen and expand relations and cooperation. The roadmap for long-term cooperation is being pursued seriously by both sides, with efforts to leverage all its capacities."

Regarding Iran and Pakistan's cooperation in combating terrorism, he stated, "Strengthening relations with neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan, is important to us. We have had good cooperation with Pakistan, and both countries have been targeted by terrorists. We have established operational mechanisms to combat terrorism. The Iran-Pakistan security agreement has entered the operational stage, and both parties are determined to identify and appropriately counter terrorist groups and those involved in organized crimes."