During a speech at the Islamabad Institute of Strategic Studies, Iranian ambassador Reza Amiri-Moghaddam emphasized that regional stability is paramount, stating, “War in the region is in no one’s interest.” He urged continued efforts to de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.
Ambassador Amiri-Moghaddam noted that recent regional conflicts, including the Pakistan-India war and the 12-day Israeli aggression against Iran, have inadvertently brought Pakistan and Iran closer together.
He expressed gratitude to the Pakistani nation and government for their strong support, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to maintaining regional stability.
Highlighting diplomatic engagements, the ambassador revealed that over the past year, 25 high-level Iranian delegations have visited Pakistan. He also praised Pakistan’s current trade relations with Iran, describing them as at a good level. Additionally, Amiri-Moghaddam appreciated Pakistan’s stance at the United Nations, noting Pakistan’s vote against an Iran-opposing resolution in Geneva, which he said marked a political setback for the U.S.
On regional issues, the Iranian envoy acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to resolve the ongoing Pak-Afghan situation, mentioning that Pakistani Foreign Minister has visited Kabul three times to address bilateral concerns.
Despite the complex situation in Afghanistan, he noted that Iranian and Pakistani embassies in Kabul remain operational, although neither country has formally recognized Afghanistan’s current regime.
Reiterating Tehran and Islamabad’s position on regional issues, he said, “Pakistan and Iran reject any form of separatism” and “Iran and Pakistan are staunch supporters of Palestine and oppose Zionist aggression.”
Speaking about Iran’s nuclear programme, he said, “Since 2015, the IAEA has repeatedly declared Iran’s nuclear programme peaceful.”
He described Israel as “the United States’ representative in the region”.
Referring to the recent Iran-Israel conflict, he said: “Israel was forced to retreat and negotiate” and “we demonstrated our military capability during the 12-day conflict.”
The ambassador also claimed that “Israel is publishing maps of Greater Israel.”
Concluding his remarks, Amiri-Moghaddam reiterated Iran’s stance: “Our efforts will continue; tension and war are in no one’s interest.”
