Ali Nikzad, Vice-Chairman of the Iranian Parliament, referring to Iran-Azerbaijan relations, stated: “Iran is a great country that has shown special respect to its neighbors throughout history. Iran has a lot in common with its northwestern neighbors, especially Azerbaijan, and we have always respected this country. Azerbaijan should know that after the Islamic Revolution, one of Iran's neighbors (Iraq - ed.) made a mistake once, and despite the great support of various countries, could not stand against Iran for 8 years, that's why we advise Azerbaijan's statesmen to keep and respect the principle of neighborliness.”
Nikzad also referred to the attack on the Azerbaijani Embassy, stressing that it was motivated by personal reasons. “If an ignorant person has made a mistake, should they close the Embassy or remove the diplomats and talk about other things? After that incident, our President contacted the President of Azerbaijan, the Speaker of the Parliament also sent a message and expressed regret, I myself talked to the second person of the Baku Embassy in Tehran. Iran has behaved honorably so far, so I advise the Government and Parliament of Azerbaijan to reflect on history and behave properly. In recent days, Azerbaijan has expelled 4 diplomats, and certainly our Foreign Ministry will take reciprocal action, but this behavior does not end well.”
Nikzad emphasized: “Iran has special respect for the people of Azerbaijan, therefore, as an Iranian Muslim, MP and Azari-speaker, I emphasize that the people of Iran and Azerbaijan have a lot in common, but Azerbaijan should refrain from adventures. Iran has been patient until now, but patience has limits. We do not have any contradictions, the borders, authorities, views of the two countries are clear, each of the countries has independence, but Azerbaijanis should not forget the history. If a Zionist group is deployed in Azerbaijan, they cannot do anything. Our heart aches for the people of Azerbaijan. We must develop our relations in peaceful conditions, maintaining dignity and friendship, but Iran's patience has a limit.”
