Caspian security responsibility of five littoral states, Iran’s deputy FM says

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said security issues in the Caspian Sea should be addressed exclusively by the five littoral states, rejecting any military presence by foreign powers.

Speaking at an event marking Caspian Sea Day, Gharibabadi noted that the sea represents much more than a body of water for Iran and its neighbours, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“The Caspian Sea has throughout history been part of the geography, identity and relations of the peoples surrounding it, and holds a special place in regional ties,” he added.

He stressed that the littoral states bear primary responsibility for the security, stability and future of the sea.

“The security of the Caspian Sea is first and foremost an internal regional responsibility that must be ensured and maintained by the littoral states through coordinated mechanisms,” he remarked.

Gharibabadi said Iran and the other littoral states support a ban on foreign military presence in the Caspian.

“The Caspian must not become an arena for rivalry or the presence of extra-regional powers,” he emphasised.

“It can and should become an example of a regional security system formed by the countries of the region for the countries of the region,” Gharibabadi explained.

He also stressed the need for cooperation on declining water levels, pollution and climate impacts.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov