Global leaders congratulate Abbas Araqchi

Several prominent international figures, including the European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, as well as the foreign ministers of Germany and Iraq, have extended their congratulations to Abbas Araqchi on his appointment as Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Araqchi, known for his previous role as a nuclear negotiator, was appointed by President Masoud Pezeshkian and successfully secured a vote of confidence from the Iranian parliament, receiving 247 out of 288 votes.

In a phone call on Thursday, Borrell conveyed his congratulations to Araqchi, expressing optimism that political discussions and consultations between Iran and the European Union would not only continue but also expand under Iran's new government. 

The two officials also discussed ongoing negotiations aimed at lifting international sanctions against Iran and addressed recent developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the situation in Gaza.

Araqchi announced Iran's willingness to manage tensions with the United States and restore relations with European nations, contingent upon these countries ceasing what he described as hostile actions against the Islamic Republic. 

He emphasized that a key priority for the new administration would be the removal of sanctions, which would help normalize Iran's trade relations globally. 

Araqchi reiterated that reviving the 2015 nuclear deal remains a central objective, provided that Western nations show a willingness to engage constructively.

The signing of the 2015 nuclear agreement, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with six world powers showcased Iran's commitment to demonstrating the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. However, the unilateral withdrawal of the United States from the JCPOA in May 2018 and the subsequent re-imposition of sanctions against Tehran have cast uncertainty over the future of the agreement.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also congratulated Araqchi, expressing hope that Germany and Iran could deepen their bilateral relations by overcoming existing challenges. 

During their conversation, Araqchi stressed the importance of mutual respect and focusing on common interests to strengthen ties between the two nations. 

The two diplomats also exchanged views on regional and international issues, emphasizing their shared commitment to resolving current problems through dialogue.

In another diplomatic outreach, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom David Lammy extended his congratulations to Araqchi on his recent appointment as Iran’s foreign minister. 

During a phone call, Lammy expressed that the formation of Iran’s 14th government presents a fresh opportunity to enhance diplomatic consultations between the United Kingdom and the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

Lammy also addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, urging Iran to play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions in the region. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomatic efforts in achieving stability, highlighting the potential for cooperation in easing the humanitarian crisis.

Responding to his British counterpart, Araqchi acknowledged the ups and downs in bilateral relations over the years. He reiterated that while Iran does not seek to widen the conflict or increase tensions, it will not relinquish its right to respond to the "criminal and terrorist actions" of the Zionist regime.

The conversation between the two ministers also covered other areas of mutual interest, including the ongoing negotiations concerning the lifting of sanctions on Iran. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue these diplomatic consultations, signaling a desire for constructive engagement moving forward.

Franch Foreign Minister, Stéphane Séjourné, also reached out to Araqchi in a separate phone call to offer his congratulations. 

Séjourné conveyed France’s readiness to continue diplomatic consultations with Iran, focusing on both bilateral relations and broader regional and international issues. 

He highlighted the ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, stressing the need for dialogue with all involved parties to reduce tensions and achieve lasting peace.

Araqchi expressed appreciation for the French foreign minister’s congratulations and emphasized the longstanding historical relationship between Iran and France. He reiterated Tehran’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to expand cooperation between the two nations.

He urged France and other Western countries to focus on holding the Zionist regime accountable for these actions to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

The phone call between Araqchi and Séjourné also included discussions on other topics of mutual interest, such as consular issues, with both ministers agreeing on the importance of continued dialogue to address these concerns.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Mohammed Hussein was among the other leaders who reached out to congratulate Araqchi. 

He expressed hope that Iran and Iraq would continue their close cooperation on bilateral, regional, and international issues. 

Hussein also conveyed an invitation from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani to President Pezeshkian to visit Iraq. 

Araqchi, in turn, highlighted the new Iranian government's commitment to deepening relations with its neighboring countries, particularly Iraq.

Araqchi received congratulations from Ararat Mirzoyan, the Armenian Foreign Minister, who expressed his country’s commitment to expanding relations with Iran. 

The two officials discussed issues related to the agenda of bilateral relations between Armenia and Iran, emphasizing the readiness of both sides to make continuous efforts towards further strengthening of friendly ties and strong partnership in areas of mutual interest. Reference was made to upcoming programs.

They also discussed the importance of supporting Armenia’s territorial integrity and the ongoing regional developments. 

Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib offered his congratulations, expressing hope for continued cooperation between Iran and Lebanon, especially in resisting Israeli aggression.

In response, Iranian foreign minister thanked Bou Habib for his congratulations and emphasized his desire for fruitful collaboration to advance the interests of both the Lebanese and Iranian people, as well as the broader region. 

Araqchi confirmed his intention to visit Lebanon soon and expressed eagerness to host the Lebanese Foreign Minister in Tehran at the earliest opportunity.

Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad joined in the congratulations, reaffirming Syria's dedication to strengthening strategic relations with Iran. 

Both Araqchi and Mekdad emphasized the importance of ongoing consultations and coordination between their countries in the face of regional challenges, particularly regarding Israeli actions in the region.

These diplomatic engagements highlight the broad international response to Araqchi’s appointment, reflecting both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for Iran's foreign policy under his leadership.