ArmInfo. Armenia has the potential to become a regional energy transit hub with proper cooperation with Russia and Iran. This was stated by Iranian Ambassador to Armenia Khalil Shirgolami at a press conference in Yerevan on July 8.
"We are very pleased that despite the challenges that have arisen recently in Armenian-Russian relations, there are currently positive trends. Mr. Pashinyan visited Russia, and it appears that effective discussions took place during the visit," the diplomat stated.
He also believes that it is crucial for countries neighboring the South Caucasus to put aside their differences and interact within logical frameworks and formats. "Discussions between Armenia and Iran in the energy sector are ongoing, and at various levels. He recalled that the Iranian Vice President recently visited Armenia, and during his meetings with the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, the issue of further cooperation in the energy sector, prospects for developing contacts in this area, and new ideas were discussed," Shirgolami noted.
According to him, the discussions covered both the oil and gas sectors, as well as transit opportunities. He expressed confidence that the region's existing potential is sufficient to transform Armenia into a unique regional hub for energy resource transit, with appropriate cooperation with Russia and Iran. He did not disclose the details of the new ideas, but assured that with sufficient will on the part of both countries, Armenia could find itself in a completely new position and expand its energy potential, including in terms of energy transit.
Referring to the Armenian Prime Minister's visit to Iran and the prospects of signing a declaration on strategic partnership between Armenia and Iran, the diplomat noted that Iran's intention to institutionalize cooperation with Yerevan within the framework of the strategic partnership is very resolute and serious. He recalled that this had been discussed at various levels, adding that during Nikol Pashinyan's visit to Iran and his meeting with President Masoud Pezeshkian, the latter reiterated the importance of this partnership and the speedy achievement of results in this direction. The Iranian ambassador emphasized that the document is still being worked on, expressing hope that these will soon be completed and work towards its signing will begin.
"I believe this document will create a new atmosphere in Armenian-Iranian relations and open a new window for further cooperation in various sectors," he concluded.
