Iranian Ambassador: Lukashenko’s visit to Tehran in March was a turning point in bilateral relations

Aleksandr Lukashenko’s visit to Tehran in March 2023 was a turning point in relations between the Republic of Belarus and the Islamic Republic of Iran – as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Belarus Alireza Sanei told reporters after his meeting with Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly Natalya Kochanova

“Iran-Belarus relations in economic and political terms are at a very good level: this is a historically good relationship. As our presidents agreed, we plan to develop their level. We’re confident and know that our countries boast enormous potential in the economic sphere and we can interact and develop liaisons across different directions,” noted the Iranian Ambassador.

According to the foreign diplomat, the economies of our countries are complementary, “Belarus manufactures goods that are very necessary for Iran, and vice versa we can supply what Belarus needs. We’re working in this direction. At the moment, very good co-operation is being established in the field of pharmaceuticals, the supply of medicines, as well as in petrochemicals and the supply of potash fertilisers from Belarus to Iran. We’re also liaising in the agricultural sector in the supply of various machinery and equipment.”

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary said that a meeting of the intergovernmental commission on economic issues will be held in Tehran in October.

“We hope that by late 2023 – which marks the 30th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries – we’ll see an increase in trade turnover between Belarus and Iran. To achieve these goals, a visit by Iran’s Vice President to the Republic of Belarus is planned, as well as holding political consultations between the two countries’ foreign ministries, for which Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister will arrive in Belarus. Next year, we are planning a visit of the President of Iran to the Republic of Belarus,” the diplomat said.

He also noted that the countries have good relations in international organisations, “We support each other, especially at the UN, on various issues, including human rights, sanctions, and the fight against terrorism. We are also partners in various integration associations, such as the EAEU. Iran also became a full member of the SCO this year, and Belarus will undergo this procedure soon. Therefore, there are very good opportunities for the future of our countries.”