OFFICIAL NEWS
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT OF AZERBAIJAN ILHAM ALIYEV
Esteemed guests,
I once again cordially welcome you to Azerbaijan.
Today, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran is paying his first official visit to Azerbaijan. Before, the esteemed president used to be in Azerbaijan for working visits. So, the first official visit is, of course, of particular importance. We attach this visit a great significance. I am convinced that the visit and its results will play a huge role in further joint activities of the two friendly and brotherly countries. Our relations are on a high level, and they are very sincere.
During our private talk today, as well as in the presence of the delegations, we had a very comprehensive exchange of views. We have analyzed our bilateral relations, and spoke about our joint projects. We have also widely discussed the situation in the region and issues relating to regional cooperation and strengthening security measures.
These discussions and the talks held reaffirm that our countries are very close to each other. We are cooperating fruitfully, and all the documents signed so far, find their reflection in life. It is very important that the documents signed do not remain on paper but find their reflection in life. This demonstrates existence of really huge capabilities and mutual interest in developing trade and strengthening ties between us.
The documents signed today define a new stage of our joint development. We have concrete projects to realize. At the same time, the Presidents have signed an extensive and comprehensive joint statement, which covers all the principles of bilateral relations. I am convinced it will become a solid foundation for further cooperation.
I would like to especially mention that the Joint statement contains the point relating to the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. It states that the Islamic Republic of Iran unambiguously supports Azerbaijan’s position and underlines the importance of resolution of the conflict on the base of the international legal norms and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.
Iran’s position on the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has been unambiguous since the very first day of Azerbaijan’s state independence. We have always felt this support, and we feel it today. No doubt, this position is playing a special role in resolution of the problem.
Necessary measures to satisfy mutual interests in all other fields are underway. We are effectively cooperating in international organizations, supporting each other both in the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Conference and other organizations. We are also actively involved in regional issues. Energy, transport and humanitarian sphere are the fields, in which our cooperation is very successful.
I do not doubt that after the official visit of the esteemed Mr. President to Azerbaijan, these relations will raise to a new level. Our relations having deep historical roots will gain a new momentum.
I am convinced that this visit is of great significance for both development of bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
Once again, I would like to welcome Mr. President and the Iranian delegation to Azerbaijan, and wish you every success in your activities.
Thank you.