We Are Ready to Explore the Path of Indirect Negotiations

TEHRAN (Defapress) - The Nowruz 1404 commemoration ceremony was held on the evening of Saturday, April 5, hosted by Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, and attended by a large gathering of ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions residing in Tehran, along with their spouses.

In his remarks, the Iranian Foreign Minister congratulated the attendees on Nowruz and Eid al-Fitr, reviewed the developments of the eventful and challenging year 1403 Solar Year for Iran and the region, and reiterated the Islamic Republic of Iran’s determination to advance its principled and responsible policies in 1404 Solar Year.

Araghchi pointed to the humanitarian tragedies caused by the warmongering and crimes of the Zionist regime in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, as well as the illegal U.S. attacks on Yemen. He stressed the necessity of solidarity and cooperation among nations to end the suffering of the oppressed Palestinian people and halt the Israeli regime’s aggressions against Lebanon and Syria.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted the Islamic Republic of Iran’s responsible and prudent approach to international developments, clarifying: "Iran’s response to the U.S. President’s letter was proportionate to its content and tone, while still preserving the opportunity for diplomacy."

Araghchi stated: "In principle, direct negotiations with a party that repeatedly threatens to use force, contrary to the UN Charter, and whose officials express contradictory positions, would be meaningless. Nevertheless, we remain committed to diplomacy and are ready to explore the path of indirect negotiations."

Recalling the entirely peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program, the Foreign Minister said: "Iran had previously adopted a series of voluntary measures under the JCPOA to provide assurances regarding its nuclear program, but it was the U.S. that unilaterally withdrew from the agreement. Now, drawing from that experience, we are prepared to engage in discussions about our nuclear program and the lifting of unjust sanctions, based on a logic of mutual confidence-building."

Araghchi firmly emphasized: "While the Islamic Republic of Iran remains committed to diplomacy and dialogue to resolve misunderstandings and disputes, it is prepared for all possible eventualities. Just as we are serious in diplomacy and negotiations, we will be resolute and firm in defending our national interests and sovereignty."

Concluding his speech, he referenced the principles of Iran’s foreign policy toward its neighbors and other regions of the world, expressing hope that the new year would bring further expansion of political, economic, and cultural relations.