According to Ehsan Movahedian, an international relations specialist and Caucasus expert from Tehran's ATU University, Armenia and Iran's interests are fully aligned. Movahedian, who was among a delegation of analysts for the Armenia-Iran: Cooperation and New Prospects seminar, shared his insights in an interview on the expanding ties between the two states.

Expressing satisfaction with the developing relationship, Movahedian emphasized the need to further strengthen Armenia-Iran cooperation, particularly in economic sectors. He identified economic corridors as foundational to this cooperation, with Armenia’s aspiration to become a central player in regional trade routes through initiatives like the Crossroads of Peace benefiting both countries. Movahedian noted that the North-South Road Corridor, connecting Armenia to the Persian Gulf via Iran, is crucial for both countries and requires continued development.

"It's good that Armenia also wants to join the economic route linking East to West, but when we assess the situation, I think the peace treaty between Yerevan and Baku won't happen soon because we see how Turkey and Azerbaijan are reacting to your initiatives. Therefore, we have a good option in Iran, Armenia, and Georgia. And it is important for all three countries that are linked with each other, support each other, which is important not just for you but also for us," Ehsan Movahedian noted, adding that Iran can connect through Armenia with both the Eurasian region and Central Asia.

In discussing economic collaboration, Movahedian pointed to Armenia’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce reliance on Russia. “Energy diversification is logical for every country,” he said, recommending increased reliance on Iran, with whom Armenia has agreements on electricity and gas exchange.

Movahedian highlighted Armenia and Iran’s alignment in political and security interests, noting, “Iran and Armenia are two countries whose interests are a 100% match.” He contrasted Iran’s support for Armenia’s territorial integrity with the stance of other neighboring countries seeking transit routes that may undermine Armenia’s sovereignty. Iran has firmly opposed the notion of an “extraterritorial corridor” through Armenia and expressed readiness to counter threats to Armenian territory.

The expert also underscored cultural respect as a pillar of the Armenia-Iran relationship, noting Iran’s preservation of Armenian heritage sites, including numerous ancient churches. In contrast, he pointed out that other neighboring countries have neglected similar cultural preservation efforts.

Movahedian warned of Turkey’s ambitions to establish a “Turkic World,” with Armenia being a key impediment to this vision due to its unique cultural and historical identity. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to Armenia’s territorial integrity and criticized the destabilizing agendas of some regional actors, asserting that Iran values its connection to Armenia as vital for regional balance.