Araghchi: No agreement without respect for Iran’s right to enrichment
On Monday June 2, 2025, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, attended a joint press conference with Badr Al-Ati, his Egyptian counterpart.
Araghchi stated that Iran and Egypt are two major countries in the region with a long history and deeply rooted civilizations. He noted: “These two countries play a significant role in achieving peace, security, development, and progress in the region, and both countries undoubtedly share a common will in this regard. Today, we have bilateral relations with Egypt, and we are determined to further develop these relations.”
Araghchi added: “Currently, there are no obstacles to developing relations between the two countries, and some remaining barriers will soon be resolved.”
According to him, the path to expanding relations between the two countries is more open than ever before.
The head of Iran’s diplomacy further stated: “We agreed to continue political dialogues and consultations between the two countries consistently and regularly. We also agreed to increase the volume of trade exchanges, promote tourism, and enhance these exchanges.”
Addressing the situation in Palestine, Araghchi said: “The Zionist regime, accused of genocide, possesses nuclear weapons.”
He continued: “We pursue our negotiations to secure the rights of our nation. Enrichment is our right under international treaties. Our primary demand in the negotiations is the lifting of unjust sanctions against the Iranian nation. We have nothing to hide. Without respect for our right to enrichment, there will be no agreement. Diplomacy is the best option and the only way forward; there is no other solution.”
He emphasized: “We do not accept sanctions against the Iranian nation and demand their removal. If the U.S. seeks to deprive us of nuclear technology, there will certainly be no agreement.”
Regarding his meeting with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Cairo, Araghchi said: “I met with Grossi, who is present here, and discussed the latest developments with him. We believe the IAEA must ensure that Western political maneuvers do not influence its work. The IAEA must maintain its independence, and we hope it does not fall into a trap.”
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, during the joint press conference, stated: “We discussed regional issues, including regional security and stability, as well as the challenges facing the region, with the Palestinian issue at the forefront.”
He added: “Instructions have been issued by the President to expand relations with Iran, which is a significant matter. Egypt will use its relations with neighboring countries to reduce tensions, and our consultations with the Iranian side are ongoing.”
The Egyptian Foreign Minister noted: “Everyone is seeking to develop relations with Iran. In Egypt’s foreign policy, escalating tensions is dangerous. We leverage our relations with Iran because there are regional threats that no single country can confront alone, necessitating cooperation.”