The Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, announced on Wednesday that he discussed ways to reduce tensions in a meeting with Abbas Araghchi, his Iranian counterpart. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and followed a phone call between the two ministers in July.
Background of Tensions
Ukraine has faced repeated attacks from drones designed by Iran during more than four years of conflict with Russia. During this time, Kyiv has developed the necessary technology to counter drone threats and has also provided technical assistance to Middle Eastern countries facing Iranian attacks.
Sybiha wrote in his post on social media platform X (Twitter): "Diplomacy means direct dialogue, even in challenging circumstances." He also added: "Our conversation focused on joint actions to prevent escalation of tensions between our countries. We agreed to continue existing dialogues."
Developments and Agreements
In this meeting, the two ministers exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East and Europe, as well as various pathways for ongoing peace efforts. Sybiha reiterated Ukraine's position in support of the swift return of peace and stability in both regions.
The two ministers had spoken in July after a Ukrainian drone attack on an Iranian ship that resulted in the death of one sailor and injury to another. Iran condemned the attack and threatened retaliation. At that time, Sybiha had urged Araghchi to refrain from any escalatory actions and to end support for Russia's war against Ukraine.
This meeting underscores the importance of diplomacy in reducing tensions and striving for positive relations among countries in the current circumstances. Given the recent developments in the Middle East and Iran's role in these developments, these discussions could help establish greater stability and security in the region. Additionally, Ukraine, as a country facing serious security challenges, is seeking to create new convergence and cooperation with other countries, especially in the Middle East.
Read more: Iran and new US sanctions on airlines
