During the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei remarked on deep ties between Iran and Azerbaijan, and the need for increased cooperation, stating: The close and fraternal connection between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan face similar adverse opponents: we should resist their temptations and disturbing actions; instead, we should expand on our relations and cooperation in different areas, with increased inspiration and determination.
Referring to the fact that the majority of the Republic of Azerbaijan's population, like Iran and Iraq, are followers of Ahlulbayt (as), Ayatollah Khamenei added: "We should appreciate this great opportunity and the glorious mourning ceremonies of the Shiites in Azerbaijan, because they will strengthen the identity of Azerbaijan’s nation and country."
The Leader mentioned the reason for the failure of former Soviet efforts to promote Marxism and to obliterate religion in Azerbaijan was the people’s strong belief in God, adding: "This year's glorious ceremony in the month of Muharram was an example of the solid faith among the Azerbaijani people."
While in this meeting, with Mr. Jahangiri--the first vice president-- also present, Mr. Ilham Aliyev said he felt at home during his visit to Iran. Speaking on the significant increase of cooperations between Iran and Azerbaijan, in recent years, the Azerbaijani president asserted: "We are very firm in our relations with Iran; and, we do not allow anyone to interfere with the relations between the two countries."
Pointing out the various examples of cooperation, between the two countries, in the cultural, economic, investment, energy and transportation sectors, Ilham Aliyev also remarked on his government’s efforts, specifically, building mosques in Azerbaijan, and said: "We are strengthening our economic and cultural ties with Iran, and we are determined to permanently maintain this bond."
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