The Iran Project - ranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has called for regional countries to forge new ties focused on promoting peace and economic development in the Caucasus region.

He made the statement during a meeting with Khalaf Khalafov, the Azerbaijani President's representative for Special Assignments, who was visiting Tehran.

Amirabdollahian emphasized the need for peace and security to replace tension and conflict in the region, particularly following Azerbaijan's restoration of sovereignty in Nagorno-Karabakh.

There are concerns that Azerbaijan may use force to open a corridor connecting Nakhchivan to mainland Azerbaijan through the Armenian province of Syunik, a plan opposed by Armenia and supported by Iran.

The Iranian foreign minister also reiterated Tehran's commitment to improving relations with Baku.

Khalafov, in turn, highlighted positive developments in ties with Iran and called for a new chapter in relations across various sectors.

He also affirmed Azerbaijan's policy of supporting the rights of ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh and ensuring their basic needs are met.

Meanwhile, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali-Akbar Ahmadian warned against geopolitical changes in the region, including proposals for the Zangezur Corridor, as they could invite interference from external forces and create new crises.

Ahmadian stressed Iran's firm opposition to any plans that alter the region's geopolitics, emphasizing the need for collective cooperation, dialogue, and comprehensive relations between Iran and Azerbaijan.

Khalafov echoed these sentiments, stating that Azerbaijan's policy is to maintain peace and stability in the region and resolve issues through a regional format.

He also called for the expansion of ties between Azerbaijan and Iran.