Iran pledges support for safe passage of BD vessels

The Iranian Embassy in Dhaka on Tuesday said it will continue efforts to facilitate the safe passage of Bangladeshi vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and has also assisted in the safe evacuation of 186 Bangladeshi nationals from Iran via Azerbaijan.

In a statement, the Embassy called on all concerned to refrain from actions or remarks that could create misperceptions, and to uphold the spirit of mutual respect that underpins relations between the two countries.

The Embassy expressed dissatisfaction over what it described as the selective dissemination of excerpts from recent media interviews on developments in the Middle East, which were later republished by some media outlets and social media platforms.

"Such actions are deemed inconsistent with the friendly and brotherly relations between the two countries," the Embassy said, adding that these "inaccurate and selective representations" are regrettable and contrary to responsible media conduct.

Iran reiterated its commitment to strengthening close and friendly relations with Bangladesh, describing ties as longstanding and based on mutual respect and shared values.

It also reaffirmed its position on non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.

The Embassy welcomed the recent meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Khatibzadeh on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, expressing hope that it would further deepen bilateral engagement.

It said both sides would pursue "constructive and fruitful" initiatives and stressed the importance of expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

Iran also appreciated Bangladesh's "balanced and constructive position" in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East through dialogue and diplomacy.

The Embassy expressed gratitude for messages of condolence from the Government of Bangladesh following the death of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei, including a condolence motion adopted at the opening session of the 13th Parliament.

It also thanked Bangladesh for sending a senior Foreign Ministry official to the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka to sign the condolence book.

Further appreciation was extended for the decision of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to send emergency medical assistance to Iran through the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society.

The Embassy also expressed condolences over the deaths of Bangladeshi nationals during what it described as "war initiated by the United States and the Zionist regime," and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.