Nournews: Kazem Jalali, ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Russia, pointed to the significance of Iran’s presence in BRICS in an interview with Sputnik and RIA Novosti, the excerpts of which are as follows:
How do you think the recent development will impact Iran-Russia ties?
Iran-Russia ties rely on two factors: Firstly, the two countries are neighbors, which has requirements. Two neighboring countries must develop their ties. Russia and we adjust our relations based on neighborhood policy. Secondly, the two countries have a joint approach concerning general political issues, mainly regarding countering monopolies and fighting terrorism. The two countries have similar viewpoints about regional and international issues. Based on these issues, our relationship is developing on a regular basis every day.
What is the role of Russia in mediation and facilitation of Iran’s ties with Europe concerning Iran’s nuclear program?
We cannot expect Russia to play the role of mediator in the current situation because Russia is in a kind of war with Europe and in conflict with the structure of international power. Therefore, we do not expect Russia to play the role of mediator. However, because we act within the framework of regulations, and all our nuclear programs are under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and since most reports about the accuracy of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s nuclear activity have been verified by the IAEA, we think that had the big powers not been greedy and acted lawfully, our nuclear program would not have become complicated and would have been solvable.
How does Iran’s membership in BRICS increase the strategic significance of the country in the region? What economic benefits will be brought to Iran through its membership in BRICS and expansion of ties with Russia?
BRICS is a protest of the countries of the Global South in the face of a power structure that was formed with the United States at the center in a unipolar world. BRICS protests against dictatorship in the world and seeks to change the power structure.
The Islamic Republic of Iran is considered one of the pioneers in this regard. We think the world’s power structure is not just and want to create justice in the system of world power, which means all countries must have a role in the management of the world. So, under these conditions, Iran’s presence in such an organization will help deepen its content. On the other hand, BRICS consists of countries that produce and consume the most energy, so BRICS can create the most effective interactions among the member states.
Also, BRICS consists of the world’s most populous countries. We think there are many possibilities for expanding cooperation among the member states. BRICS has large and significant goals. This does not mean that BRICS can achieve its goals in the short term, but we think it can achieve parts of its goals in the mid-term and parts in the short term.
What measures has Iran taken to strengthen its ties with the littoral states of the Persian Gulf? What challenges does Iran face?
We consider the littoral states of the Persian Gulf as our Muslim neighbors; consequently, we seek to expand ties with our neighbors and Muslim countries. The current administration emphasizes both neighborhood and Islam. We hope we are able to expand our ties in these sensitive times, when the Zionists are the most hostile toward Islam. Therefore, it is natural for Muslim countries to stay together. On the other hand, we can expand our economic ties with the Persian Gulf littoral states.
What are Iran’s main security concerns regarding the Persian Gulf littoral states?
Our neighbors are not a source of concern for us. We are worried about the infiltration of foreigners in neighboring countries. The presence of foreigners in neighboring countries can naturally complicate our relations. Western countries are seeking to meddle in the internal affairs of regional countries and enact changes for their benefit. They are not concerned with the national interests of us and other regional countries. Therefore, we think that the best approach is for us to consult with each other, and if there are certain disagreements, solve them based on internal mechanisms. It is wrong to let foreign countries meddle in our problems.
What role can cultural exchanges play in strengthening the ties between Iran and Russia?
Naturally, relations can persist only if they have cultural infrastructure as a priority, followed by economic infrastructure. If relations are not based on the economy, and particularly on culture, political relations cannot last long either.
We believe we must enhance our cultural relations with Russia. Before the 1917 Revolution, the two countries had very good cultural communication. This was because people in both countries shared close relations and strong ties at the grassroots level. Unfortunately, after the 1917 Revolution, mosques and Iranian centers were closed in Russia. Security concerns, along with the closure of Islamic centers, weakened the relationship. We must resume these connections at the people-to-people level. One of the best ways to do this is by expanding tourism.
Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, in his meeting with Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, noted that tourist exchanges have increased by 53 percent compared to last year. University ties and exchanges of students and professors are also growing areas of collaboration. We hope to further increase our connections in this regard in the future.
NOURNEWS