Iranian president calls for stronger trade, education, and transport ties with Azerbaijan

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Iran and Azerbaijan can provide each other with significant support as neighbours and called for greater cooperation in trade, education and transport infrastructure.

In an interview with Azerbaijan’s AzTV during his visit to Baku, Pezeshkian stressed the importance of building stronger ties between the two countries, referring to their shared history and cultural connections, Caliber.Az reports.

"As neighbours, we can offer each other great support," he said. "We can unite and develop cooperation to strengthen the bond between our countries. This includes expanding university partnerships and boosting trade discussions."

Pezeshkian, who assumed office earlier this month, said mutual visits and eased travel procedures would further enhance people-to-people contacts. "We are relatives on both sides. Helping one another will create a peaceful and prosperous life for the people of both nations," he added.

Addressing broader regional issues, Pezeshkian said Iran had consistently defended Azerbaijan’s rights while supporting Armenia within the framework of international law. "We are working to ensure both sides live peacefully, based on the principles of good neighbourliness," he said, referring to tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

The Iranian president also underscored Tehran’s role in facilitating land connectivity between mainland Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan exclave through Iranian territory.

"We have taken the initiative to establish a land link between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan, and the project is progressing rapidly without any obstacles," Pezeshkian said. "We consider Iran a second homeland for Azerbaijanis and welcome them warmly."

Highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects, Pezeshkian said Iran is investing in the restoration and repair of key land roads, including in Astara on the Iranian side of the border. He suggested that improved transport links could bolster not only bilateral trade but also strengthen Azerbaijan’s role as a transit hub connecting Iran with Russia.
"Azerbaijan can leverage Iran’s access to the Persian Gulf to expand its transport operations," he said, adding that he would discuss project implementation with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during their meeting.

Pezeshkian concluded by emphasising the deep-rooted ties between the two countries. "We do not see Azerbaijan as a foreign country, nor do we feel foreign there. In the past, we were very close brothers, and this bond will continue," he said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev