“The Islamic Republic of Iran does not seek to acquire nuclear weapons, and we consider the malicious propaganda against our country to be false,” Masoud Pezeshkian stated.
Pezeshkian denied Tehran’s pursuit of atomic arms during discussions held on the sidelines of a United Nations biodiversity summit in Yerevan, Armenia. Meeting with Irakli Kobakhidze, the Iranian leader reaffirmed his country’s interest in dialogue while targeting economic restrictions imposed by the United States.
Defiant Stance Against Washington
The president characterized the ongoing pressure from Washington as “unjustifiable and inhumane.” He reiterated that Tehran remains open to diplomatic engagement despite these mounting tensions.
At the same time, Pezeshkian dismissed the prospect of capitulation. He asserted that his administration would not yield to external coercion.
Calls for Closer Bilateral Ties
Beyond regional security concerns, the discussion between Pezeshkian and Kobakhidze zeroed in on bilateral cooperation.
The Iranian state-affiliated news agency Tasnim reported that the Iranian president requested the development of a formal schedule to strengthen ties between Tehran and Tbilisi. While reports suggested the Georgian Prime Minister expressed opposition to foreign interference in the domestic affairs of neighboring nations, the office of the Georgian Prime Minister did not issue a public statement confirming those specific remarks.
Navigating American Sanctions and Trade
The diplomatic talks occur against a complex backdrop of economic policy and international alignment for Georgia.
In September, the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency announced that the country would adhere to the current regime of U.S. sanctions. Despite this alignment with American policy, Prime Minister Kobakhidze has maintained a distinct stance regarding bilateral relations. He has previously emphasized that Tbilisi does not impose its own independent, bilateral sanctions against Iran, seeking to maintain a balance between international obligations and regional economic interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Georgia’s sanctions policy toward Iran?
Georgia follows the U.S. sanctions regime as confirmed by the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency in September. However, Prime Minister Kobakhidze has clarified that Georgia does not implement additional, independent bilateral sanctions against Tehran.
Where did these discussions take place?
The meetings occurred in Yerevan, Armenia, on the sidelines of a United Nations summit focused on biodiversity.
What was the primary objective of the meeting regarding bilateral relations?
According to the Iranian news agency Tasnim, President Pezeshkian requested that both nations establish a specific timeline to deepen cooperation between Tehran and Tbilisi.
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