TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has held a series of high-profile meetings with global leaders and foreign ministers on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, strengthening bilateral relations and discussing key regional and international issues.

One of the key meetings took place between Araqchi and Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum (WEF). 

During their talks, the two leaders discussed global economic trends and challenges, with an emphasis on how Iran can engage with the broader international community amid evolving economic circumstances. The meeting highlighted the increasing importance of Iran's role in addressing economic cooperation on a global scale.

The Iranian foreign minister also held a series of meetings with his counterparts from various countries. On Friday, Araqchi met with Poland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rados?aw Sikorski, and Germany's Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Annalena Baerbock. These discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and reviewing the latest regional developments, particularly in light of growing economic and political challenges facing Europe and West Asia.

In separate talks, Araqchi met with Armenia's Foreign Minister, Ararat Samvel Mirzoyan, to review the state of relations between the two neighboring countries and explore new avenues of cooperation. The meeting was seen as a crucial step in maintaining peace and stability in the South Caucasus region, where both countries have key strategic interests.

Further expanding his diplomatic outreach, Araqchi also met with Jeenbek Kulubayev, the Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan, to discuss issues of mutual interest and explore opportunities for collaboration in trade, culture, and regional security.

On Thursday, Araqchi held discussions with a number of additional key foreign ministers. He met with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein to address ongoing cooperation between the two countries, particularly in areas of security and economic development. The conversation was framed by both nations' shared interest in regional stability.

Araqchi also held bilateral talks with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Brunei's Foreign Minister Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, and Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno. In these meetings, topics ranged from economic partnerships and cultural exchanges to the latest geopolitical developments, reflecting Iran's broad engagement with diverse regions around the world.

Araqchi’s participation in the 79th UN General Assembly marks an important diplomatic effort for Iran as it seeks to navigate both international sanctions and shifting alliances. His meetings with key global players signal Iran's continued interest in fostering diplomatic ties and addressing mutual challenges through dialogue and cooperation.

The 79th session of the UN General Assembly opened on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, and has brought together leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues, including climate change, economic recovery, and peace-building initiatives.