MINSK, 11 July (BelTA) – Political stability and border security are the main pillars of the economic and social development in Belarus, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Belarus Mohammad Reza Sabouri said in an interview with BelTA.

Belarusian People's Congress was an important event, the diplomat said A. In his opinion, “such events provide an opportunity for dialogue and direct interaction between intellectuals and representatives of different sectors of society, and also science and education, business and senior government officials.”

“Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko was present at the congress from the start till the finish, and listened to proposals and initiatives from representatives of regions, different industries, which was important,” the Ambassador said. “I would like to note that there are many similarities between the mechanisms of action suggested by the head of state on a promising program of foreign policy, economic and social development of Belarus and the development ideas for the benefit of the people which were outlined by the leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran. For example, from the point of view of the President of Belarus, political stability and border security are the main pillars of the country's economic and social development. Unfortunately, the geopolitical instability still continues in the regions where Iran and Belarus are located.

“In modern conditions security issues acquire particular importance,” said Mohammad Reza Sabouri. Undoubtedly, common efforts are needed to combat threats. Ensuring national unity and strengthening defense capability are also very important. These two important elements were outlined by the President of Belarus. He noted that today the danger of international terrorism is not confined to a specific territory, country. Many European countries have faced this terrible phenomenon. Iran stays committed to wise and well-balanced domestic and foreign policy and has repeatedly warned about the consequences of these developments. Unfortunately, terrorism and extremism spread, like a malignant tumor, and thrive in the regions where people are suffering from political discord and inherent instability.

According to the Ambassador, decisions taken at the Belarusian People's Congress will be undoubtedly implemented. “Further development of national manufacturing, refusal from uncontrolled import and diversification of sources of raw materials and markets are part of the measures needed for the country's perspective development. Enhancement of the economic potential coupled with a well-balanced foreign policy is a basis for the country's security, and hence, it plays a vital role in maintaining stability in the region and the world,” Mohammad Reza Sabouri believes.

Mohammad Reza Sabouri has been working in Minsk since 2013. “Over the time a lot of events have taken place in the world, including the Ukrainian crisis, which has had an international and regional aftermath impact on the economic and political situation in the region, including Belarus. However, it was Belarus' active diplomatic stance that helped ease tension of the Ukrainian conflict. A series of important talks in Minsk helped curb the escalation of tensions in Ukraine. Today we can talk about the gradually increasing role of Belarus in the international arena,” the diplomat said.