News - Iran official: Our main position has always been to support Armenia’s territorial integrity

During the one-day program, we were able to have very good and effective discussions with Armenian officials, particularly with the Minister of Economy and the Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure. Mehrdad Bazrpash, Minister of Roads and Urban Development of Iranian, told this to Armenian News-NEWS.am. "The matters we discussed were related to the transport sector, as well as the implementation processes of various sections of the North-South road, and also Armenia's access to the Caspian Sea. This was a very important visit," he said. According to the Iranian official, it was very important that an Iranian company was able to sign a contract with the Armenian side regarding the construction of a section of the North-South road. "It is an important document and a very good opportunity for Iranian companies, as Iranian companies have a very rich experience in road construction and will be able to invest their experience in road construction. In addition, the companies of the two countries can take part in each other's infrastructure development projects," he added. Bazrpash emphasized that one of the important matters that was discussed with Armenian officials, including Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, was related to the zeroing of road fees. "It will best contribute to the growth of the amount of trade between the two countries. Also, during the meeting with the Prime Minister of Armenia, an agreement was reached regarding the construction of a number of schools in the territory of Armenia. A part of the programs will be implemented in the coming months," he added. The Iranian minister noted that another matter that was discussed was transport, as well as truck traffic. "The matter of building a new bridge over the Araks River was also discussed. Of course, the parties should be able to come to a final agreement in that regard in the coming months. The other important matter related to the guarantees provided by the banks, which will facilitate the activities of Iranian companies in Armenia. Mr. Minister promised me that a representative will be appointed in that regard to follow up on this matter," he said. Mehrdad Bazrpash stressed that Armenia is a friendly country for Iran. "We have never been harmed by Armenia. Our main position has always been to support the territorial integrity of Armenia. Peace is very important in the South Caucasus region, which can be a good stimulus for the development of economic relations," said the Iranian minister. And to the question whether the construction of a new bridge connecting Azerbaijan to Nakhichevan via Iran can be considered as part of Iran's policy to curb Azerbaijan's intentions to open the "Zangezur Corridor" by force, he responded: “Iran has expressed its clear position regarding the ‘Zangezur Corridor.’ Iran is a country of opportunities in logistics and transport. We will spare no effort for Armenia and are ready to share our experience with the Armenian side."