The Effective Lifting of Sanctions is Iran’s Main Demand
WANA (Apr 22) – The Iranian government spokesperson stated that the effective lifting of sanctions is Iran’s primary demand in the ongoing indirect negotiations with the United States.
Fatemeh Mohajerani, speaking at her weekly press conference today, said: “A significant part of the rise in the foreign exchange rate is due to psychological pressures and market expectations. The more we expand international cooperation, the more economic stability we will have. That’s why negotiations are taking shape, and the two key goals being pursued are the effective removal of sanctions and improving the people’s livelihoods.”
Transfer of enriched uranium is a red line for Iran
In response to a question about rumors of transferring enriched uranium out of Iran, Mohajerani stated: “Some issues can be negotiated, but this is one of the red lines of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Regarding Russia’s role in the indirect talks between Iran and the U.S., she said: “As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia plays a very important role. The close nuclear cooperation between Iran and Russia will naturally have a significant impact on the negotiations. We hope that with the determination we have, the talks will proceed positively.”
Mohajerani, in response to a question about the rumors surrounding the transfer of enriched #uranium from Iranian soil, stated that while some topics are open to discussion, this particular issue is among the red lines of the Islamic Republic of #Iran. pic.twitter.com/z92pDpJOAm
— WANA News Agency (@WANAIran) April 22, 2025
Expanding ties with neighbors, especially Saudi Arabia, is the strategy of the 14th government
Mohajerani emphasized: “Building on the efforts of the previous administration, our government’s strategy is to strengthen relations with neighboring countries and deepen ties with nations that share cultural commonalities with us. Saudi Arabia plays a special role in this regard, and we have a strategic outlook towards our relationship with them.”
She added: “The recent release of an Iranian prisoner by Saudi Arabia demonstrates their goodwill, which has become increasingly evident. We emphasize our shared interests with Saudi Arabia and believe that, as two major Muslim countries in the region and the world, we can have a positive impact.”
Mohajerani continued: “The foreign policy priority of the 14th government is to develop and deepen political and diplomatic ties with regional and Muslim countries, which will help reinforce our common ground.”
No barriers to foreign investment, including from the U.S.
On the government’s plans to attract foreign investors, she said: “Investment requires proper infrastructure. We hope that with the support of lawmakers and legislative institutions, the conditions for increased investment will be created.”
Regarding investment from American entities, she explained: “We have never imposed barriers on foreign investors. However, countries like the U.S. have imposed complex and multi-layered regulations that prevent their investors from entering Iran. Nonetheless, we are committed to creating a transparent and open environment for investors, because we believe it is in the best interest of the Iranian people.”
Saudi Defense Minister’s visit to Iran was more than an ordinary trip
In response to a question about the importance of the Saudi defense minister’s visit to Tehran, she said: “This visit was of special significance. Mr. Khalid bin Salman, the special envoy of the Saudi King, brought a message from the monarch to Iran, making this more than a routine trip. Important discussions were held, indicating a serious will on the part of Saudi Arabia to strengthen and deepen cooperation with Iran.”
She added: “The 14th government is strongly committed to enhancing regional diplomacy and forming more serious collaborations with countries, especially those with whom we share religious and cultural ties—such as Saudi Arabia.”
We do not welcome prolonged negotiations
When asked about the government’s plan if negotiations drag on, Mohajerani said: “Right now, constructive talks are underway. We’re aiming for a good deal that safeguards our national interests. While we’re not in a rush, we certainly do
not welcome drawn-out negotiations. We believe that a good agreement can be reached in the near term.”
“Some topics fall within Iran’s red lines, others are negotiable. As for Russia, its role as a UNSC permanent member and close nuclear cooperation with Iran gives it significant weight in the talks. We hope the path of dialogue continues positively. We emphasize not to rely on… pic.twitter.com/11VQnBYDY8
— WANA News Agency (@WANAIran) April 22, 2025
Environmental diplomacy a priority in tackling transboundary dust storms
Mohajerani said the government is deeply concerned about the impact of cross-border dust storms on citizens, especially in certain provinces. “Our investigations show that the main sources of these storms are outside the country, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the National Secretariat for Dust Storm Control at the Department of Environment has been activated.”
She added: “Strengthening environmental diplomacy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is one way to manage these foreign-origin dust storms.”
She stressed that at a recent meeting attended by the head of the Department of Environment, emphasis was placed on addressing dust hotspots. Projects are being developed in cooperation with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to create early warning systems for natural hazards.
She concluded: “Cooperation among countries affected by this issue is crucial. Watershed and aquifer management projects are now a top priority for the Department of Environment.”
Pope Francis made great efforts for peace
At the beginning of her remarks, Mohajerani expressed condolences to Christians worldwide, especially Iranian Christians, on the passing of Pope Francis. She said: “Pope Francis made many efforts to promote peace and stop the bloodshed in Gaza, although those efforts did not bear fruit. He was also actively involved in efforts to prevent the killing of women and children around the world. May God grant him peace.”
Iran Expo 2025 and Africa Summit to Boost Trade and Exports
WANA (Apr 21) – At a joint press conference held this morning at the Tehran International Exhibition Center, Government Spokesperson Fatemeh Mojaherani underscored the strategic importance of two upcoming events: the Third Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Summit and the Seventh Iran Export Capabilities Exhibition (Iran Expo 2025). Both events are scheduled to take place next week, […]
Africa seen as key to unlocking economic opportunities
Mohajerani noted the upcoming Africa Summit, saying: “This will be the third economic summit hosted by Iran, taking place from April 26 to 30. Representatives from 55 African countries will attend. Africa is a major opportunity for global economic breakthroughs and is drawing the attention of many countries. In some cases, other nations’ trade volumes with Africa far exceed ours.”
She added: “We hope to use this opportunity to boost both investments and exports. Senior officials, ministers, their deputies, national chambers of commerce, and traders from various countries will be actively involved.”
Mohajerani also announced the upcoming “Iran Expo 2025,” an exhibition of Iran’s export capabilities, beginning on April 27 in Tehran and Isfahan. “About 150 officials and 3,000 traders from 110 countries will attend, focusing on investment opportunities.”
Trade relations operating on three levels
She explained: “Naturally, meetings will be held to expand trade relations between governments and between private sectors. There will be interactions at the government-to-government, government-to-business, and business-to-business levels. This is a unique opportunity to expand markets. As we know, economic growth requires access to larger markets.”