Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, referring to Iran-Oman talks on safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, says the two sides are now working on a joint statement based on main considerations and points agreed upon during the negotiations.
In response to reporters’ questions on Wednesday, Baqaei explained the latest status of the Tehran-Muscat talks regarding the strategic waterway, linking the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean.
He said Iran and Oman, as the two coastal countries have already agreed upon geographic coordinates for navigation route in the Strait of Hormuz, and a joint statement is in the final stages of review and drafting, provided no external party interferes with the process.
The spokesperson noted that Tehran and Muscat have been holding talks for two months to establish a safe commercial shipping route through Hormuz, with the competent authorities in Iran reviewing the technical, legal, security and environmental aspects of the proposal.
Regarding the Iran-Oman bilateral understanding, he said it alone would not guarantee safe navigation through the strategic waterway, arguing that the security situation remains tied to ongoing US blockade, as well as other aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests.
Baqaei also referred to the dangerous consequences of US actions for the entire region, clarifying once again that he Strait of Hormuz was closed a result of the military aggression launched by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran.
In response to another question about reports of a potential visit of Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi or Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to Pakistan or Qatar this week, the spokesperson dismissed the speculations, saying there are no such plans at the moment.
Of course, Pakistan and Qatar are continuing their efforts to reduce tensions, and the Islamic Republic of Iran is also in contact with them and exchanging views on the latest developments, he added.
Source: IRNA