ANKARA – The third meeting of the “3+3” Regional Cooperation Platform was held on 18 October 2024, in İstanbul, upon the invitation of H.E. Mr. Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey, with the presence of H.E. Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia; H.E. Mr. Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan; H.E. Mr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran; and H.E. Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
During the meeting, the Ministers:
- Recalled the previous “3+3” format meetings held in Moscow and Tehran.
- Emphasized the importance of reconvening the “3+3” Regional Cooperation Platform amid current complex developments that threaten regional and international peace and stability, and agreed to enhance cooperation within the platform.
- Reaffirmed the importance of peaceful dispute settlement, respect for sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, inviolability of internationally recognized borders, non-interference in internal affairs, prohibition of the threat or use of force, and respect for human rights, in accordance with the United Nations Charter.
- Discussed outstanding regional issues, stressing the critical role of dialogue, seizing opportunities for regional cooperation, and the ability to frankly converse on pressing international matters.
- Commended the positive dynamics in the normalization and development of relations among regional countries.
- Recognized the constructive role of regional economic cooperation in building confidence, prosperity, and stability, which benefits all peoples by providing economic and commercial development opportunities, especially by transforming conflictual issues. They agreed to further explore cooperation in transport, communication, trade, energy, investment, and connectivity.
- Highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation and people-to-people contact, aiming to promote joint projects in education, science, tourism, culture, and sports.
- Concurred that bilateral talks will complement multilateral consultations toward sustainable regional peace and economic development.
- Reiterated that the “3+3” Platform remains open for Georgia to join.
- Exchanged views on the escalating situation in the Middle East and strongly condemned grave violations of the UN Charter and international humanitarian law that jeopardize regional peace and security. They called for respect for international law, an immediate ceasefire, an end to aggressions and atrocities, and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for affected populations.
- Acknowledged the rise in terrorist and criminal activities in areas close to the region, expressing their commitment to cooperate against all forms of terrorism, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
- Underlined the importance of regular ministerial meetings of the “3+3” Regional Cooperation Platform, along with consultations on areas of common interest to foster an environment of trust and cooperation.
- Agreed that the venue and date of the next meeting will be arranged through diplomatic channels.
The Foreign Ministers of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Russia thanked the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey for the warm reception and the successful organization of the meeting.
