Raisi made the remark on Wednesday in Tashkent where he was addressing a meeting of Iran-Tajikistan Trade Association as part of his trip to the country.
The policy of the US and other Western states is to prevent other countries from gaining progress and independence, the president said.
The current war in Gaza and “cruelty” towards the Iranian nation over the past decades are examples of “what the US and its allies want for regional countries, he noted, adding that “through relying on capacities and strong will of our nations, we will not allow any damage to our independence and progress.”
The Iranian president also talked about trade ties between Tehran and Tashkent, saying that Iran has achieved significant progress in different fields including industry, agriculture, technology and medical sciences despite threats and sanctions, and is ready to share its experiences in those fields with Tajikistan.
Tajiki President Emomali Rahmon addressed the meeting as well. He said that Iran is one of the main priorities of his country when it comes to deepening economic and trade cooperation.
He also said that the development of long-term economic ties between the two countries protects the interests of both nations.
President Raisi arrived in Tajikistan earlier on Wednesday on the first leg of a regional tour that also takes him to Uzbekistan.
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