Iran hopes for resolution of 'disagreements' between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on int’l law

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed hope that the disagreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan would be resolved within the framework of international law. 

In an interview with the Azerbaijani AzTV broadcaster, the Iranian President spoke about the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process.

He said that neither of the parties shall “have eyes” on the other’s lands.

“The conflict starts when one of the parties tries to take control of the other’s lands or borders. Therefore, what we’ve been supporting and advancing is respect for the rights of states, their interests and territorial integrity. This principle must be respected,” the Iranian president said.

He said that all countries, including Iran, have adopted this principle within the framework of international law. The Iranian president expressed hope that what he described as  “disagreements and concerns” between Armenia and Azerbaijan would be resolved in adherence to international law.

“We have always protected Azerbaijan’s rights, and naturally, based on the same principle we will protect also Armenia’s rights. We will seek for both sides to be able to sit around the negotiations table based on principles of peace, brotherhood and good-neighborliness, live side by side and help one another,” the Iranian president said. 

Asked how Iran views the resolution of the issue of unblocking of connections, particularly the passage from Azerbaijan proper to its Nakhchivan exclave through Armenia, the Iranian president said that the unblocking of connections in the region must take place in adherence to the territorial integrity of the countries.

He also said that Iran has offered Azerbaijan passage through its territory to Nakhchivan. The construction of the road is proceeding swiftly, he said, adding that an agreement has already been achieved.