Why it matters:
This shift represents a historic opportunity for West Asian countries to reclaim their agency, reshape regional dynamics, and establish a sustainable, legitimate order based on their shared history and values—moving away from externally imposed frameworks.
What he’s saying:
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that regaining regional initiative is not merely about altering the balance of power but about transforming the underlying ideas and perceptions that legitimize the current order. He asserted that as long as the countries in the region develop a new language rooted in their historical memory and common horizons, they can create institutions, mechanisms, and alliances that are more enduring, legitimate, and effective than those imposed from outside.
Araghchi positioned Iran as a reliable partner and a constructive collaborator for all regional countries, committed to building a strong and convergent West Asia inspired by the principle of government consensus. He called for a diplomatic outlook, inclusive of all regional states.
Key points:
- The Tehran Dialogue Forum, a platform for unofficial diplomacy, gathers high-level delegations from over 40 countries to foster regional cooperation and security.
- The upcoming forum, hosted by the IPIS on May 18-19, 2025, will welcome 200 foreign guests, including 40 current and former European officials.
- Participants include senior figures from all Persian Gulf littoral states, and high-ranking representatives from China, Russia, and Afghanistan.
- Discussions will center on the region's influence on the international order, exploring areas of both agreement and disagreement.
Go deeper:
Iran Proposes Regional Policy Shift Toward Interdependence
ahmad shirzadian
