Japan's Kyodo News Agency's interview with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the new era will act to manage tensions with Washington and rebuild relations with European countries—though only if they abandon their hostile approaches.

Question: Given your knowledge of Japan and its capabilities, what areas of cooperation between the two countries do you see as possible under the current circumstances? How do you view the perspective of cooperation between Iran and Japan?

Answer: I am well aware of Japan's capacities and capabilities. Japan can play a more significant role in Iran's energy, oil, and economic sectors. Iran and Japan, with their distinct but complementary capabilities, have enormous potential for a stabilizing and mutually beneficial partnership across the vast continent of Asia. In this regard, expanding economic and trade relations between Iran and Japan seems like a natural and logical option. We expect this collaboration to continue in the direction of fruitful cooperation.

Question: Will there be any prioritization or plan for cooperation in East Asia under the new government?

Answer: The new government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has made establishing relations with East Asia a fundamental goal of its foreign policy. Within this framework, I would like to emphasize Japan's prominent position in our prioritization. In the face of uncertainties, instabilities, and rapid global changes, it is necessary to adopt a forward-looking approach to open new avenues for economic and trade cooperation between Iran and Japan. We must overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of our mutual interests and prioritize our shared vital needs. Through a comprehensive assessment of the current landscape, we can establish a constructive partnership that will bring progress and prosperity to both nations.

Question: Your Excellency, how can all these cooperation plans be realized given the ongoing U.S. sanctions? What is the fundamental plan for lifting sanctions and pursuing relations with Europe?

Answer: The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the new era, will act to manage tensions with Washington and rebuild relations with European countries—though only if they abandon their hostile approaches. The Ministry’s goal will be to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement and lift the sanctions. In outlining my foreign policy in the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Iran's Parliament), I emphasized the vital goal of lifting sanctions, especially unilateral sanctions, through serious, focused, and time-bound negotiations while adhering to the fundamental principles of the country.

Question: Is there any potential for Iran and Japan to cooperate in areas beyond the economy? Can Japan act as a mediator or facilitator between Iran and other countries, particularly the U.S.?

Answer: In this regard, from my perspective, Iran and Japan have historically developed a bond characterized by friendship, trust, respect, and mutual understanding. The leaders of both countries highly value this solid foundation, which enables Iran and Japan to jointly address global and regional challenges with a constructive and optimistic spirit. In my view, there is always room for new initiatives.

Question: Japanese companies have known you well since the time you were Iran's ambassador and Deputy Foreign Minister. Is there a place for Japanese companies in your economic diplomacy?

Answer: Iran welcomes Japanese companies that are interested in working in Iran’s oil and energy sector. Japan can return to the oil fields in Iran and take part in the development of oil fields and oil production in Iran.