Armenia Elections Part of Trend towards Democratic Changes: Iran

In a Tuesday statement, Qassemi referred to the elections as a significant stage in the domestic developments of Armenia.

He also expressed the hope that Iran and Armenia could increasingly strengthen their mutual relations following the public participation of the Armenians in their country’s general elections and the subsequent formation of the new government there.

Establishing ties with all neighbouring states has a very significant and decisive position in Iran’s foreign policy and for peace, stability, prosperity and security of all regional states, he added.

“Geographical proximity has created deep cultural and historical bonds between Iran and all its neighbours,” Qassemi said, adding that Tehran highly values these common roots and bonds.

The alliance of Armenia’s acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan achieved a landslide victory in the snap parliamentary elections held on Sunday.

The victory enabled Pashinyan to consolidate his authority months after he took office on the back of anti-government protests in the ex-Soviet state.

Nine political parties and two electoral blocs were running in the vote to secure seats at the 101-seat parliament. Each party needs at least 5 percent of the vote to enter the legislative chamber, while blocs need 7 percent or more.