Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi underscored the strategic significance of the Caspian Sea and reaffirmed the priority of neighboring countries in Iran’s foreign policy during the First International Summit of Caspian Coastal Governors. Senior officials, including the Managing Director of the Ports and Maritime Organization, attended the gathering.

Araghchi emphasized that strengthening political, economic, cultural, and security cooperation with neighboring states remains a core element of Iran’s diplomacy. He noted that Iran maintains strong—and in some cases strategic—relations with all Caspian littoral countries, highlighting ongoing high-level exchanges, including with Russia under a long-term cooperation agreement.

Pointing to upcoming visits to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, the minister described Iran’s regional relations as increasingly dynamic. He also stressed the Caspian Sea’s growing importance in energy, transport, and regional transit corridors, calling for greater utilization of maritime trade and logistics capacities.

Araghchi cited the significant tourism potential of northern provinces such as Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan and emphasized the need for joint environmental protection efforts, particularly regarding marine pollution in the Caspian basin.

He also highlighted the launch of Iran’s “provincial diplomacy” initiative, noting that this summit marks the first structured collaboration between Iranian provinces and their counterparts in neighboring countries. Araghchi expressed hope that the forum would open new avenues for regional cooperation and wished participating officials success as the process advances.