WANA (Oct 16) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said expanding regional cooperation was a central focus of his visit to Armenia, emphasizing that stronger economic, cultural, social, and political ties with neighboring countries could promote shared interests and constructive relations.

Speaking to reporters after returning from Armenia, where he attended and addressed a summit on biodiversity, Pezeshkian also discussed the outcomes of international meetings in Armenia and Turkmenistan, highlighting environmental challenges and opportunities to deepen regional partnerships.

Environmental Protection a Shared Global Responsibility

Pezeshkian said discussions at the international summits covered several pressing issues, including declining water levels in the Caspian Sea, environmental pollution, and threats to biodiversity.

He stressed that environmental protection was a shared responsibility for all countries, warning that damage to ecosystems could have serious consequences for human life and future generations.

“The Earth is our common home, and we are responsible for preserving it for future generations,” Pezeshkian said, emphasizing the essential role of living organisms in maintaining the balance of nature.

He also criticized the environmental consequences of wars and military conflicts, arguing that damage to forests, air, soil, and other natural resources often extends beyond national borders.

Pezeshkian called for stronger international cooperation to protect natural resources and prevent further environmental degradation.

Iran and Armenia Discuss Strategic Cooperation

Regarding his bilateral talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Pezeshkian said the two sides discussed existing relations and future cooperation, including the preparation of a joint strategic document.

He said experts from both countries would hold specialized meetings to examine relevant issues and identify practical ways to advance bilateral cooperation.

The Iranian president added that stronger relations between neighboring countries could contribute to regional stability and create lasting economic and diplomatic benefits.

Iran, Armenia and Georgia Explore Transport Links

Pezeshkian also referred to his meeting with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, highlighting the longstanding historical and cultural ties between Iran and Georgia.

He cited the presence of Iranian communities of Georgian descent, including in Fereydunshahr, as evidence of the countries’ historic connections, which remain visible in local names, dialects, and cultural identities.

He said discussions also addressed opportunities to expand regional transport and transit routes, linking the geographical capacities of the countries to wider markets and destinations, including Europe, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, and India.

According to Pezeshkian, these connections could open new opportunities for economic, cultural, social, and political cooperation.

Talks With Tajikistan’s President

Pezeshkian also reported holding talks with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on the sidelines of the international meetings.

He described the encounters as opportunities to strengthen relations among regional countries and advance shared cooperation initiatives.

Pezeshkian Highlights Long-Term Regional Partnerships

Summarizing the outcomes of his trip, Pezeshkian said the discussions could serve two main purposes: strengthening international cooperation on environmental protection and biodiversity, and promoting sustainable relations between Iran and neighboring countries.

He emphasized that expanding practical cooperation across multiple sectors would help create shared benefits and strengthen regional connectivity.