Azerbaijan, Australia FM's discuss Middle East stability, bilateral ties

On June 20, 2025, the Foreign Ministers of Azerbaijan and Australia, Jeyhun Bayramov and Penny Wong, held a telephone conversation addressing the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.

During the dialogue, both ministers exchanged views on recent developments in the region, underscoring the importance of maintaining stability and dialogue amid the current challenges, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Foreign Ministry.

Minister Wong updated her counterpart on Australia's plans to evacuate its citizens from Iran, expressing appreciation for Azerbaijan’s support in facilitating these efforts.

In addition to regional matters, the ministers reviewed bilateral relations, affirming the significance of continued consultation and cooperation between their respective foreign ministries.

Australia has expressed its gratitude to Azerbaijan for assisting in the evacuation of Australian citizens from Iran. 

During a recent phone call, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong thanked Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov for Azerbaijan’s support in ensuring the safe passage of Australian nationals amid rising regional tensions.

This cooperation follows a major military escalation between Israel and Iran. On June 13, Israel launched airstrikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials and nuclear scientists.

Iran responded with “Operation True Promise III,” firing ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli population centres, causing significant damage and casualties.

In this volatile context, Azerbaijan played a crucial humanitarian and logistical role, evacuating over 600 people, including foreign nationals, through the Astara border checkpoint on the Azerbaijani-Iranian border.

By Aghakazim Guliyev