Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stressed the need to strengthen regional convergence and dialogue to promote security, economic development and stability, saying Iran does not seek war but will respond firmly to any aggression.
President Pezeshkian made the remarks on Monday before leaving Tehran for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
He described the summit as highly important, noting that most regional leaders are expected to attend. The president said the gathering represents diverse and independent voices in the international arena at a time when some international institutions are seeking to create a single-voice global order.
Highlighting the deep historical and civilizational ties among countries in the region, he said regional nations have shared connections, coexistence and development for thousands of years. Peace, security, economic activity and civilization have emerged from the region, he added, stressing the need to build on this shared heritage in today’s world.
President Pezeshkian emphasized that peace, stability, growth and development are closely interconnected, expressing hope that constructive dialogue at the summit would demonstrate the ability of regional governments to manage their own affairs and address common challenges.
He also issued a warning to aggressors, reiterating that Iran is not seeking conflict. However, he stressed that the Islamic Republic would not remain passive in the face of any aggression and would deliver a firm response.
President Pezeshkian said instability and unrest would benefit none of the countries in the region and could create challenges for all. He called for collective efforts to strengthen regional security, expand economic cooperation and advance development.
He expressed hope that the participation of regional heads of state and bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit would contribute to security, economic and political developments and produce positive outcomes for all participating countries and peoples.