Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi Speaks at Ceremony Honoring Ayatollah Khomeini

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke at a ceremony in Tehran commemorating the 36th anniversary of the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Minister Araghchi emphasized that Khomeini was not only the architect of the revolution but also of Iran’s foreign policy. He stated, “The path we follow is based on his understanding of foreign policy, which fundamentally rejects foreign domination. The ‘Neither East nor West’ policy also stems from this. Iran does not accept foreign domination. Imam Khomeini always emphasized this. The first article of our constitution clearly states that Iran rejects oppression, tyranny, domination, and submission. This approach is the foundation of our movement and remains valid today.”

“Enrichment Vital for Iran”

Highlighting Iran’s focus on nuclear energy and uranium enrichment, Araghchi underlined, “Nuclear energy and enrichment are vital for Iran. However, our top priority in negotiations has always been to reject domination. The demand that ‘you should not enrich’ is a clear act of domination. Why shouldn’t we enrich? This is unacceptable to the Iranian people.”

“Having Nuclear Weapons Unacceptable for Us”

Araghchi emphasized that their stance on the nuclear issue is clear, stating, “Having nuclear weapons is unacceptable to us, and we are in agreement with the other party on this issue. However, they have not adhered to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). They cannot deprive the Iranian people and future generations of their rights based solely on their own concerns. Having peaceful nuclear energy is Iran’s most natural right.”