Abbas Araghchi has traveled to Baghdad to participate in the fifty-second session of the Council of Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Today, Sunday, October 18, he spoke to reporters about this meeting, stating: The ministerial meeting is a regular session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation that is held annually, and this year it has been entrusted to Iraq.
The Importance of Iraq in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation
Araghchi continued: Iraq is very important to us as a friendly and neighboring country, and Iraq's success in managing this organization can be very significant. He also referred to the organization's poor performance in the past, saying: Unfortunately, for many reasons that are debatable, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has not performed well. With the appointment of a new Secretary-General, who is the former Foreign Minister of Mauritania, and the transfer of the rotating presidency to Iraq, we hope this organization will gain new momentum.
The Role of the Organization in Resolving Islamic Disputes
Araghchi stated: It is expected that the organization will play a constructive role in resolving disputes among Islamic countries. He also discussed the disputes between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, saying: Serious discussions took place regarding Yemen at this meeting. Saudi Arabia expressed its views, and we and other countries also presented our opinions. He added: They are calling for a resolution that has not yet been finalized, but we hope fairness and balance will be maintained in this resolution and the final statement.
Araghchi continued: Naturally, if this does not happen, the Islamic Republic of Iran cannot join this resolution. The bloc of countries close to Saudi positions in the organization is certainly significant, and we have also conducted extensive lobbying.
Iran's Conditions for the Opening of the Strait of Hormuz
Araghchi emphasized: Our conditions are very clear and have been presented to the U.S. in the form of a 7-day plan, and they have provided their feedback, to which we are still responding. From our perspective, the 7-day plan is on the table, and if there is sincerity on the American side, the path is clear. If they comply with those conditions, the strait will be opened on the sixth day, and negotiations will begin on the seventh day.
He also referred to his meeting with the Foreign Minister of Lebanon, stating: This meeting was entirely respectful but frank and serious. We have many ideological differences with the current Lebanese government regarding how to resolve issues in Lebanon, but we agreed on the point that the relations between the two governments should be prioritized and advanced.
Araghchi concluded by emphasizing: We will not bow to threats in any way. We are more prepared to defend ourselves than ever, but at the same time, we are ready for diplomacy, provided it is dignified and honorable and also secures the rights of the Iranian people.
