Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, Minister of Defense and Support of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, met with the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Baku at the start of his official visit to discuss ways to expand bilateral cooperation and regional security issues.

Why it matters

The meeting underscores Tehran and Baku’s shared interest in regional stability, particularly in the South Caucasus, amid heightened sensitivities over security arrangements and the role of external actors.

The big picture

Iran and Azerbaijan, as neighboring countries with deep historical, cultural, and geopolitical ties, have repeatedly emphasized the need for regional solutions to regional challenges, especially in the post-conflict Caucasus landscape.

What he’s saying

Speaking during the meeting, Iran’s Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh welcomed the establishment of peace in the Caucasus region and stressed the responsibility of regional countries to safeguard lasting stability and calm.

He warned that the involvement of extra-regional actors undermines regional security and disrupts peace.

What Azerbaijan’s president says:

The Azerbaijani president highlighted the importance of bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries, noting their many shared interests and commonalities.

He emphasized that Azerbaijan has always taken into account the importance of Iran’s stability and security and reaffirmed Baku’s commitment to this principle.

Key points

  • The meeting took place upon the Iranian defense minister’s arrival in Baku.
  • Talks focused on bilateral relations, regional cooperation, and security developments.

 

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