TEHRAN – In a recent statement, Iran’s ambassador to Baku disclosed plans for the imminent reopening the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran, revealing that a delegation is already Tehran to facilitate the process.

During an extensive interview with Baku TV, Abbas Mousavi praised the longstanding ties between the neighboring nations, emphasizing their commitment to resolving any misunderstandings that may strain relations.

He added, "Both nations have worked to overcome past challenges through strategic diplomacy and usher in a new era of bilateral relations."

Mousavi stressed, "The shared history and deep cultural and emotional connections between the peoples on both sides of the approximately 800-kilometer border between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan prevent issues and misunderstandings from lingering."

He continued, "We have actively pursued a course of reconciliation and renewal in bilateral relations, leveraging wisdom, insight, and foresight. The disruptive influence of shared adversaries, alongside select regional actors and regimes, particularly through their security apparatus, is palpable in exacerbating tensions between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan."

Mousavi further affirmed the steadfast and principled approach of the current Iranian administration's neighborly policy.

Azerbaijan's relationship with Iran became strained in January last year following an attack on its embassy in Tehran, resulting in its closure and the evacuation of staff, which Baku attributed to a "terrorist act." However, investigations by Iran revealed that the incident resulted from a personal dispute involving the gunman, who believed his wife was in the embassy. The aftermath of the attack marked the most severe diplomatic confrontation between the two neighbors since the early 1990s, until a July visit to Baku by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian that eventually signaled an increase in diplomacy between Azerbaijan and Iran.

Mousavi addressed the incident, describing it as "poignant, unpredictable, and surprising." He highlighted subsequent investigations and actions by both countries' judicial and security authorities, which culminated in the apprehension, trial, and severe punishment of the perpetrator.

Mousavi reiterated Iran's steadfast commitment to foreign policy principles rooted in opposition to occupation and separatism, emphasizing solidarity with the Republic of Azerbaijan in resisting external encroachments on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He also highlighted the transport corridor connecting Nakhchivan to Azerbaijan through Iranian territory, emphasizing plans for its development and diversification.

Furthermore, Mousavi underscored collaborative efforts between Tehran and Baku to initiate large-scale economic projects aimed at fostering deeper economic ties.