Chief of General Staff: "Iran will always stand by Azerbaijan"

"Iran has always recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and respected its sovereignty. Iran is pleased with the de-occupation of Azerbaijani territories. We are as sensitive to the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan as to the territorial integrity of our country," Chief of General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, said, Report informs, citing AZERTAC.

He said Iran is keen on military cooperation with Azerbaijan: "It is necessary to increase mutual visits for the exchange of experiences. The Iranian army has opportunities for cooperation in military-medical and military-technical sectors. Mutual cooperation can contribute to the strengthening of the armies of both countries."

Bagheri noted that Iran would never allow the use of its territory against Azerbaijan: "Iran supports the proposal of the Azerbaijan president to establish cooperation in the region in the 3+3 format. Regional states have the opportunity to solve regional problems."

"We unequivocally declare that Iran will always stand by Azerbaijan," said Lieutenant General Bagheri, noting that Azerbaijan is a friendly and brotherly state for Iran.