TEHRAN - Iran's Acting Foreign Minister has emphasized the profound impact of Imam Khomeini’s thoughts on foreign policy, describing independence as the cornerstone of the late Founder's ideology. 

Speaking at a commemoration ceremony on Wednesday titled "Palestine and Resistance in the intellectual system of Imam Khomeini," Ali Bagheri Kani hailed this principle as Imam Khomeini’s "most valuable gift." 

“Independence means safeguarding the nation’s identity,” Bagheri Kani stated, adding that this autonomy has endowed Iran with significant power, surpassing all other forms of influence. 

He underscored that this principle has been pivotal in shaping Iran's strength and sovereignty on the global stage.

Bagheri Kani further highlighted Imam Khomeini’s role as a transformative ideologue who integrated religion with governance. "Within the internal sphere," he remarked, "Imam Khomeini was the founder of the Islamic Republic. In the foreign sphere, he championed the principle of 'Neither East, nor West.' On the international stage, he laid the foundations of the resistance movement."

Concluding his speech, the acting foreign minister noted the unique and rare qualities of Imam Khomeini’s personality, which continue to inspire and guide Iran's policies both domestically and internationally.