Muscat: Dr Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, praised Oman’s balanced and constructive role in promoting regional stability and fostering dialogue among various parties. He stated that Iran is committed to resuming nuclear talks.
However, he stressed that Iran rejects any US preconditions or attempts to impose predetermined outcomes in the process. "Genuine dialogue must be based on mutual respect and equality among all sides," he added.
Dr Ravanchi, who is in Muscat as part of the framework of annual political consultations held alternately in Tehran and Muscat, reflecting the two countries’ commitment to maintain close coordination, commended Oman’s 'honest and balanced mediation efforts in previous rounds of nuclear negotiations.
"Oman is a trusted partner and a credible facilitator in sensitive regional matters. It has always played a positive role in encouraging dialogue and de-escalation, and we highly appreciate its continued engagement,” Dr Ravanchi told reporters during a press conference held at the Iranian Embassy.
He said Iran believes that security and stability in the region are collective responsibilities that require cooperation among all neighbouring countries. “The people of this region share a common destiny, and only through understanding and joint efforts can we achieve lasting peace and prosperity," he said.
For a question about the possibility of a military confrontation between Iran and Israel, Dr Ravanchi dismissed any intent for escalation, asserting that Iran does not seek conflict, but will not hesitate to defend its sovereignty and national interests if attacked. “We believe in peace, yet we are fully prepared to safeguard our security should the need arise," he added.
Dr Ravanchi called for greater unity and cooperation among Middle Eastern countries. “Differences in opinion do not mean hostility. If we truly wish to achieve development and stability, we must work together and place our hands in one another’s. Our future is shared, and our destinies are intertwined,” he said.
On Oman-Iran relations, Dr Ravanchi said the relations are moving towards a broader phase of political and economic cooperation, driven by mutual determination of both leaderships.
The two sides, he said, have agreed to continue their consultations in the coming period to follow up on existing agreements and explore new areas of collaboration aimed at ensuring regional stability and sustainable growth.
“These meetings reflect not only our geographic proximity but also the closeness of our hearts,” Dr Ravanchi remarked, adding that the two countries enjoy “deep-rooted and friendly relations built on mutual trust and respect.”
The Iranian official said that his discussions with Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, Foreign Minister, covered a wide range of regional and international developments as well as ways to enhance bilateral economic and trade cooperation. He noted that there is a strong political will from both leaderships to further strengthen relations across various sectors in the interest of both nations.
On the economic front, Dr Ravanchi pointed out that trade and investment between Iran and Oman have grown significantly in recent years, supported by a number of bilateral agreements and ongoing projects.
"There are promising opportunities for expanding cooperation in sectors such as energy, maritime transport, industrial investment and tourism. Oman has become an increasingly popular destination for Iranian tourists and vice versa," he said.
Shaddad al Musalmy and Idris al Balushi
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