On August 24th Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov met Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Seyyid Abbas Eraqchi. 
They discussed a number of issues, including relationship between the two countries, ongoing processes in the region and the summit of the Non-Aligned Movement to be held in Tehran.
Minister Mammadyarov stressed the necessity of development of Azerbaijan-Iran relationship, adding it influences general situation in the region.
The Minister also said the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia had negative impact on the region. "The international community must exert pressure on official Yerevan to give up the aggressive policy. All countries, including Armenia must respect the United Nations and its decisions."
Mammadyarov put special emphasis on the issue related to Azerbaijani poets arrested in Iran. He said the Azerbaijani people and government are seriously concerned about this issue. He hoped that the issue would soon be solved positively.
Seyyid Abbas Eraqchi said his country attaches great importance to relations with Azerbaijan. He noted official Tehran respects Azerbaijan`s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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The same day Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Khalaf Khalafov met Iranian counterpart Seyyid Abbas Eraqchi. They exchanged views on prospects for bilateral relations. Khalafov praised Eraqchi`s interview on Iran-Azerbaijan relations he gave before the visit to Baku. He noted concrete steps should be taken to contribute to development of relations between Azerbaijan and Iran.
Khalafov also pointed out Azerbaijan-Iran relationship influences general situation in the region. He added the principles of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, support for sovereignty and territorial integrity between the two neighboring countries must be fundamental. He added this strategic course was founded by national leader Heydar Aliyev.
Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister noted the reason why Armenia was isolated from all regional projects is the aggressive policy of this country. "This policy puts obstacle to development of the region."
Khalafov also said the Azerbaijani people were deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by the earthquake.
Seyyid Abbas Eraqchi, in turn, thanked the Azerbaijani side for the humanitarian aid sent to Iran.
The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister said his country was interested in development of relations with Azerbaijan. He said official Tehran supports Azerbaijan`s territorial integrity and recognizes Armenia as an aggressive country.

AzerTAc