Araghchi's extensive diplomatic background to serve him well as Iran’s FM: Diplomat

By Alireza Hashemi

Abbas Araghchi's extensive diplomatic experience and deep understanding of Iran's foreign policy will serve him well as the Islamic Republic's new foreign minister, says a senior diplomat.

In an interview with the Press TV website, Mohammad Ali Hosseini, former spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry and ambassador to Pakistan, praised Araghchi’s appointment as the top diplomat.

"Dr. Araghchi's steady progression within the foreign ministry has greatly enhanced his ability to lead the ministry," said Hosseini, referring to Araghchi’s rise through the ranks of Iran’s diplomatic circles.

"He advanced from an expert level, gaining valuable experience through ambassadorial roles in Finland and Japan, as well as his positions in the Asia and Oceania Department and the Legal and International Affairs Department," he added.

Hosseini, who also previously served as deputy foreign minister, noted that Araghchi's recent role as Secretary of the Strategic Council on Foreign Relations and his interactions with various institutions both within and outside the country will serve him well as the new head of Iran's foreign ministry.

Araghchi, who won a vote of confidence from the Iranian parliament last week, has vowed to pursue "comprehensive, active, and effective" diplomacy, focusing on strengthening ties with friendly nations.

He also aims to enhance Iran's relations with European powers, provided they engage on equal terms and seeks to manage tensions with the United States while safeguarding Iran's strategic interests.

Abbas Araghchi: Iran’s new foreign minister and his diplomacy of pragmatism

Abbas Araghchi, the new foreign minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a seasoned and serious diplomat with an extensive background spanning several decades.

Regarding differences in approach between Araghchi and his predecessor, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Hosseini stated that both share similar policy orientations, with only minor adjustments expected.

"The country's foreign policy is rooted in constitutional principles, revolutionary guidelines, high-level documents, and the resolutions of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, so significant changes are unlikely," he told the Press TV website.

"Moreover, the executive priorities of both gentlemen are very similar."

Araghchi has emphasized continuing the path laid by Amir-Abdollahian, who passed away in a helicopter crash in May while returning from an official visit to northern Iran with President Ebrahim Raeisi.

Hosseini further suggested that Iran's relations with Europe could improve if European nations changed their negative stance toward the Islamic Republic.

"Iran has always approached negotiations with the EU constructively. The deterioration of relations stems from unfriendly and sometimes hostile policies by major European countries," he asserted.

"Improved relations will follow a shift in Europe’s approach, based on mutual respect and interests."

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.co.uk