Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for closer relations between Tehran and Yerevan during talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Tehran, according to the Mehr news agency.

Pezeshkian thanked the Armenian government and people for their condolences and expressions of support following the deaths of Iran's leader and other victims of the recent conflict. He said those messages reflected the deep historical ties and longstanding friendship between the two neighbouring countries.

The Iranian president said relations between Iran and Armenia are built on mutual respect, good-neighbourly relations and shared interests, adding that the two countries have steadily expanded constructive cooperation across a range of sectors.

He also expressed appreciation for Armenia's cooperation during the recent conflict and voiced hope that negotiations on a comprehensive bilateral cooperation agreement would be concluded soon. According to Pezeshkian, the accord could open new opportunities while strengthening customs, transport, transit, trade and broader economic ties.

Pezeshkian stressed that relations between Tehran and Yerevan should develop free from external interference and reflect the independent decisions of the two countries. He argued that the presence of extra-regional powers has often complicated regional issues rather than helped resolve them.

Reaffirming Iran's foreign policy principles, the president emphasized respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states and repeated that Tehran favors resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

Pashinyan, in turn, conveyed condolences on behalf of the Armenian government and people to Iran's authorities and citizens, recalling his meetings with the late leader.

The Armenian prime minister reaffirmed Yerevan's commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Iran and stated that Armenia would never take part in any initiative contrary to Iran's security or national interests. He added that bilateral relations are currently at their highest level since Armenia gained independence.

Pashinyan travelled to Iran to attend the funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, described in the statement as the martyred leader of the Islamic Revolution.