At the opening of the National Congress on Foreign Policy and the History of Foreign Relations, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi framed Iran’s foreign policy around independence, dignity, and resistance to external pressure. Speaking at the Center for Political and International Studies, Araghchi thanked senior diplomats and paid tribute to Seyed Mahmoud Momtaz, calling him a lifelong mentor and an enduring figure in Iran’s foreign policy.
Marking the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, Araghchi urged reflection on its roots and slogans: “Independence, Freedom, and the Islamic Republic.” He said independence became the people’s main demand due to historical foreign interference, especially during the Qajar era. Referring to the pre-revolution capitulation law, he recalled Imam Khomeini’s criticism of granting legal immunity to American military advisers. Such measures symbolized the erosion of national dignity and strengthened public demands for genuine independence.
Araghchi emphasized that rejecting domination and preventing foreign influence are embedded in Iran’s Constitution. These principles continue to shape the country’s foreign policy. He argued that Iran’s diplomacy reflects independence, national dignity, and resistance to external pressure. On Iran’s nuclear program, Araghchi said the country paid a high price to maintain peaceful capabilities, including uranium enrichment. He called enrichment essential for energy, healthcare, agriculture, and development.
He added that Iran insists on enrichment to uphold its rights, not only for technical needs. “If there are concerns, we are ready to address them through dialogue and transparency,” he said. He warned that demands for “zero enrichment” seek domination, not technical solutions. Referring to a twelve-day war, Araghchi said Iran’s refusal to surrender showed resilience and deterred further pressure. Conceding under threats would have left a mark of humiliation.
He reiterated that Iran favors diplomacy but stays prepared to defend itself. “We are not seeking war,” he said, “but we are ready for it so no one imposes it on us.” He added that Iran responds to respect with respect and force with force. Concluding, Araghchi rejected claims that Iran seeks nuclear weapons. He said Iran’s true power lies in resisting coercion. “They fear our atomic bomb,” he said, “but our atomic bomb is the power to say no to great powers.”