Controversial 'Zangezur Corridor' Removed from Negotiation Table: Iranian Government Spokesperson

The Islamic Republic of Iran supports any process that leads to the cessation of hostilities, reduction of tensions, and the establishment of sustainable stability, stated Iranian government spokesperson Fatima Mohajerani. This was reported by the Mehr news agency.

"Of course, this support is conditional and based on the agreed principles of the regional countries," Mohajerani said. She emphasized Tehran's three unwavering principles: the complete preservation of countries' sovereignty over their territories, the protection of the territorial integrity of all states, and decisive resistance against any changes to international borders, adding that the recent joint statement from Baku and Yerevan has taken these principles into account.

Mohajerani highlighted that a key shift was the elimination of the controversial so-called 'Zangezur Corridor' project. "According to the parties’ claims, the 'corridor' has been removed from the negotiation table and replaced by a transit route under the complete sovereignty of Armenia," she stated, describing the change as 'positive and reasonable' because it upholds sovereignty and allows for economic cooperation.

However, the spokesperson cautioned that the entry of external forces or players into the Caucasus balance could have long-term negative consequences for peace and stability. Mohajerani mentioned that Iran is ready to act as a 'responsible neighbor and a reliable partner' if the agreement safeguards sovereignty, stability, and regional cooperation.