Iran prioritizes ties with neighboring countries: Velayati

Developing ties with neighboring countries is Iran’s foreign policy priority, says Ali Akbar Velayati, the advisor to the Supreme Leader on international affairs.

Velayati made the remarks at a seminar on Iran-Iraq relations on Monday.

Iran shares borders with 15 countries and is a suitable transit route due to its access to the international waters and this provides great opportunities for neighbors, he said.

Iran and Iraq have developed strong ties since the downfall of the Saddam Hussein regime.

The advisor to the Supreme Leader said the solidarity between Iran and Iraq can have “constructive effect” on the region by linking Syria and Lebanon to the union.

Velayati, a former foreign minister, said those who have caused rift in Syria and been doing terrorist actions in Iraq are seeking to create fear among the Iraqi people.

Velayati also described Iraq as the most powerful Arab nation and said the purpose of this seminar is to explore ways to strengthen ties with that country.