The relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan consist of a deep historical and cultural kinship and shared civilization that go far beyond mere geographical proximity, and these relations are based on the long-standing and inseparable ties between the peoples on both sides of the Araz River. These deep bonds occupy such a place in our societies that it is difficult to imagine the history, literature, art, religion, or identity of one without the other. In this narrative, political borders are merely lines on a map, whereas hearts and shared heritage have beat as a single melody for centuries.
Looking at modern history, we see that the Islamic Republic of Iran has been a reliable partner and a strong pillar for its brothers living north of the Araz River at every decisive moment. When the wave of independence arose, Iran was among the first countries to recognize the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan and, by immediately transforming its Consulate General into an Embassy, delivered a message to the world of its full support for the newly independent Azerbaijan. This support continued with substantial assistance in the early years of the strengthening of Azerbaijan’s national sovereignty, and during the long-lasting Karabakh conflict, Tehran’s consistent policy was always based on the importance of respecting territorial integrity.
Today, these relations—built upon historical foundations and deep roots—have expanded into various fields such as economic, transit, political, security, cultural, and social spheres. This comprehensive historical interconnectedness and multifaceted cooperation have outlined bright prospects for sustainable and long-term collaboration in the mutual interests of both nations.
In the field of communication and geopolitics, it can be said that Iran’s role as a reliable and important partner is indisputable. For the past 34 years, Iran has based its mutual relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan on a policy of good neighborliness and, with a humanitarian outlook, has safeguarded the access of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic to other regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan through its own territory. Throughout these years, even during periods of the highest external pressure and political volatility, Iran did not allow the connection between Nakhchivan and the main part of the Republic of Azerbaijan to be severed.
Today, the “Araz Crossing Project” is seriously on the agenda with the aim of improving and enhancing the quality of these relations. This strategic project is not merely a transit route—it is also a symbol of the resolve of both countries to diversify transportation routes. Currently, there are four other border crossing points operating 24/7 between the two countries, all of which are vital for trade and passenger traffic. However, the good news is that the construction of the “Aghband-Kelaleh” border bridge will be completed in the near future, and with it, the fifth border crossing point between the two countries will come into operation. This new border crossing will create new opportunities for economic cooperation and will complete the regional communication network.
Relations between Iran and Azerbaijan are multifaceted, and one of the most important dimensions of these relations is cooperation in the field of energy and water resources. The Araz River, once considered a symbol of separation in the literature of both countries, has today become a symbol of unity and cooperation. Numerous joint projects are being implemented in the border regions, including the construction of water dams and power stations.
In the political sphere, regular consultations are held between senior officials of both countries. In recent years, there have been ups and downs in our bilateral relations, but overall, the trajectory of the relationship has been upward, and the will of senior officials of both countries has been to resolve misunderstandings and to comprehensively develop these relations. The exchange of delegations and recent meetings—especially Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s two visits to the Republic of Azerbaijan and the agreements reached regarding the continuation of meetings between the Presidents in the near future—show that Tehran and Baku are demonstrating a strong will to advance cooperation.
Now, following the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the South Caucasus is entering a new era: this creates a unique opportunity for peace, stability, and shared development. We deeply believe that security and stability in this region cannot be imported, and can only be ensured through the participation of regional countries without external interference. At a time when the West Asian region is struggling against unilateral extreme and tension-creating policies, vigilance by Tehran and Baku is extremely important to maintain stable, tension-free, and predictable relations that safeguard mutual interests, because any factor that exposes the region’s geopolitics to undesirable changes is considered extraordinary and requires joint action. Undoubtedly, achieving sustainable stability requires a comprehensive approach, avoiding plans that ignore the vital interests of neighbors, and leveraging local capabilities. This commitment to security requires us to remain vigilant and not allow external forces seeking instability to interfere in the brotherly relations between the two countries.
On the eve of my visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, I am honored to carry a message of peace, friendship, and determination from the Iranian state and people for the opening of a new and bright chapter in bilateral relations. This visit, undertaken in response to the sincere invitation of the esteemed Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, is not an ordinary diplomatic mission. This visit is to renew the commitment to strengthening the historical kinship between the peoples of the two countries.
We are going to Baku to emphasize that the new situation in the region has created a favorable environment for expanding purposeful economic cooperation and strengthening solidarity in the fields of transit, energy, trade, investment, and humanitarian relations. The ultimate goal of developing these mutual activities is nothing other than building a prosperous future for both nations. Today, the will of Tehran and Baku is directed toward building a shared, bright, and lasting future—one in which borders become gates of friendship and rivers sing songs of cooperation.
Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran
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