Peace and stability of Kazakhstan - extrinsic value in the midst of conflicts in many parts of the globe, Ambassador Mojtaba Damirchilu
Mr. Ambassador, you've arrived in Kazakhstan more than two months ago. What was your first impression of Astana and other regions of Kazakhstan that you visited?
This is not my first visit to Kazakhstan. Back to 1994 I was in Almaty and Aktau as an official of the Iranian MFA department for Economic Cooperation Organization. I'm really glad to see today's Kazakhstan prosperous and successful. Peace and stability in your country became extrinsic value in the midst of the conflicts taking place around the world, particularly, in the Gaza Strip. Looking at happy Kazakhstanis I meet, I see the joy on their faces. I think it's a result of the efforts of the country's leadership and the people.
Could you tell us about your work experience, hobbies and interests?
I have Bachelor's degree in International Affairs and Master's degree in International Law. I worked at the Iranian MFA's secretariat for the Caspian Sea issues, acted also as the first and second secretary of the Iranian embassy in Azerbaijan, and headed the diplomatic mission in Georgia.
My goal is to fulfill the tasks of the country's leadership to expand bilateral cooperation of our nations. I also hope to find new friends in Kazakhstan. I love reading books, study culture and traditions of various nations and watch sports events.
Have you ever read works of classics of Kazakh literature?
Now I'm reading The Path of Abai in Farsi. It is a great book in many ways. I would love to learn the Kazakh language soon to associate with native speakers to know the people better.
How many languages do you speak?
I studied Arabic at school, English and French at the higher educational establishment. I learnt reading and writing in Azerbaijani and to speak Georgian. I believe I will speak Kazakh soon.
Wish you success in learning the official language of Kazakhstan. What could you say about ongoing Kazakh-Iranian cooperation? What are the priorities?
Rakhmet (thank you in Kazakh). I would like to note that Iran was one of the first to recognize Kazakhstan's independence and to open its diplomatic mission in the country. Thanks to the efforts of both sides, the countries enjoy now good political, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian relations. The frequency of high-level visits, exchange of delegations (musical and theatre troupes, scientists, cinematographs, etc.) speak for themselves. Besides, the Iranian team participated in the 45 th International Physics Olympiad held recently in Astana.
Economic aspect is definitely of high priority for both nations. As of today, the mutual commodity turnover stands at USD 600 mln while previously it reached USD 2 bln. We would like to increase sales up to USD 5 bln. To this end we plan to realize a number of projects in transport and logistics, mining, agriculture, energy and infrastructure spheres. It is noteworthy, Iranian companies built a glass works in South Kazakhstan; take an active part in construction of roads and other projects.
What is Tehran attitude to Kazakhstan's nuclear non-proliferation efforts?
Ira is committed to the principle "Nuclear energy for all, nuclear weapons for none". It is one of the key principles that lie at the heart of the country's foreign policy. Fortunately, the countries have common views on nuclear non-proliferation. Kazakhstan initiated a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the world. Iran strives to achieve this goal in the Middle East. Both countries seek to develop peaceful atom. Iran's consent to hold two rounds of international negotiations on Iranian nuclear issue in Almaty attests to the country's confidence in Kazakhstan. The talks were successful and exerted positive influence on the negotiation process at large. I would like to express gratitude to Kazakhstan for this important mediating role.
Could you tell our readers about the Kazakh Diaspora of Iran?
Iran is a multinational state. The Iranian Kazakhs had to resettle during the years of forced collectivization over 1928-1932. The Kazakhs live mainly in Gorgan city, the Golestan Province. There is no precise information how many Kazakhs live in Iran, but according to one of the Kazakh officials there are 6,000-8,000 of them. They have great potential and make great contribution to the country's development and broadening of Iran-Kazakhstan cooperation.
Do your companies plan to participate in EXPO 2017?
Our companies show great interest in the event ahead. Iranian companies will participate first of all, in preparations to hold the event, construction of its facilities and secondly, participate in the exhibition.
When does President of Iran Hassan Rouhani plan to pay his first state visit to Kazakhstan?
The Presidents of Kazakhstan and Iran have good friendly relations. Participation of President Nursultan Nazarbayev in the inauguration of Hassan Rouhani, talks held within multilateral meetings and regional sittings contributed to good neighborliness. Hassan Rouhani is expected to visit Kazakhstan September this year.
What do you want to wish Kazakhstanis on the holy month of Ramadan?
May Allah accept our fasting and prayers during this blessed month. I wish Kazakhstan peace and stability. I would like to ask Muslims of Kazakhstan to pray for our sisters and brothers, Muslims of the Gaza Strip.
Thank you for the interview!
