Oct 24, 2023, 8:31 PM
News ID: 85269702
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3+3 meeting: Stabilizing peace, consolidating cooperation

Tehran, IRNA - The first meeting of foreign ministers from Iran, Russia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, organized under the banner of "the time for peace, cooperation and progress in the South Caucasus" was held in Tehran.

Notably, Georgia did not participate in this meeting due to its ongoing border disputes with Russia. This meeting holds substantial significance in the context of regional peace, security, and strengthening cooperation in the Caucasus for several key reasons:

1. This meeting represents a pivotal diplomatic initiative aimed at securing regional peace and fostering cooperation amongst neighboring nations. It follows the constructive steps taken by Azerbaijan and Armenia, wherein both acknowledged each other's territorial integrity and abstained from altering international borders. These practical decisions paved the way for Nagorno-Karabakh's return to Azerbaijan and removed the shadow of war in the Sivnik region of Armenia, laying the groundwork for safeguarding the rights of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. The multilateral gathering in Tehran underscores the participating countries' shared objective of solidifying peace and enhancing collaboration among neighboring states, thereby countering external powers seeking to further their interests by intervening in the Caucasus.

2. The meeting underscores the countries' commitment to deepening cooperation, particularly in economic domains such as trade, energy, and, crucially, transportation. This collaboration not only reinforces mutual trust but also fosters an environment in which conflicts and disparities can evolve into friendship and cooperation. Iran has played a pivotal role by permitting the construction of a railway line by Azerbaijan, facilitating rail access from Aghband to Nakhchivan. The Iranian contribution is an essential step towards resolving regional disputes. In the past, Iran generously provided transportation routes for Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey and has expressed its intent to continue leveraging its geopolitical position to promote regional stability.

3. One of the focal points of the 3+3 discussions in Tehran centered on advancing peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, with a particular emphasis on resolving remaining differences, particularly regarding border delineation and defining border points. Iran, with its legal and technical expertise, has expressed a willingness to act as a trusted advisor to assist the two nations should they wish to expedite dispute resolution. Accelerating the resolution of these disputes is instrumental in normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia while enhancing constructive interactions between these two countries.

4. Notably, disparities among the countries within the 3+3 format have not hindered their active participation in these meetings. Differences currently exist between Turkey and Armenia, Azerbaijan and Armenia, and Russia and Armenia. The primary objective of these gatherings is to promote regional integration and reduce tensions between neighboring countries. The involvement of Georgia in future meetings is expected to further fortify cooperation and camaraderie. Georgia has the opportunity to pursue its national interests through active participation.

5. Another significant aspect of this meeting was the collective attention paid to the Palestinian people's suffering and the crimes committed by the Zionist regime against civilians, particularly women and children. This demonstrates the united stance of the 3+3 group in supporting the people of Gaza and quickly halting attacks on defenseless civilians.

In conclusion, Iran's initiative to convene foreign ministers from the 3+3 group, which was warmly received by participating countries, is a commendable step toward securing peace and fostering cooperation among neighboring nations. Going forward, all members of this group share the responsibility of preserving and strengthening security and friendship in the Caucasus. The ongoing implementation of agreements and continuation of these meetings can chart a clear path for the future of the Caucasus region.

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