Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif

Iranian Foreign Minister in an article in op-ed published by Financial Times, has suggested a non-intervention, non-aggression agreement to be signed in the Persian Gulf region.

Iran Press/ Europe: Pointing to the Hormoz Peace Endeavour (HOPE) proposed by Tehran, Mohammad Javad Zarif emphasized that by signing this treaty, the states of the region can bring peace, security, stability and prosperity to everyone.

"For too long, foreign forces have come to our region to project their power, not to protect our people. We can collectively choose to remain on this path of instability and tension, and await the unknown. Or, we can instead choose peace, security, stability and prosperity for all," Zarif wrote.

In late September, Iran’s president Hassan Rouhani proposed the latter at the UN General Assembly, unveiling what he called the Hormuz Peace Endeavor (Hope).

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Referring to that suggestion, Iranian Foreign Minister wrote: "To be successful, this effort requires universal observance of the purposes and principles of the UN charter. We will all need to commit to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the inviolability of our international borders, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We should categorically reject any threat or use of force or participation in coalitions against each other."

Further on in this article, Zarif wrote that Iran proposes setting up meetings of experts, think-tanks, the private sector, senior officials, ministers and heads of state to deliberate on common objectives.

"These meetings can help articulate a collective approach to opportunities and challenges such as energy security and freedom of navigation for all. We must also promote arms control and security building measures, the establishment of a zone that is free of weapons of mass destruction, as well as the prevention and resolution of regional conflicts."

Iranian Foreign Minister also suggested that a joint task forces to be set up to come up with practical steps towards these objectives and gradually build confidence and expand co-operation.

"Academics and prominent thinkers can also work together to expand cultural co-operation, interfaith dialogue and tourism. Scientific co-operation could include the exchange of scholars and students, and joint scientific and technological projects," Zarif continued.

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