Iranian Embassy Addresses Reports of Fees Charged on Iranian Vehicles Heading to Armenia

A few days ago, a photo circulated on the internet showing an Azerbaijani police checkpoint established along the Goris-Kapan highway in the Vorotan area. The National Security Service of Armenia clarified that near the settlement of Vorotan, which is under the control of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani police are conducting checks on drivers of Iranian trucks and the cargo documentation at the location of the Aivazli settlement.

Yesterday, another photo appeared online, accompanied by information suggesting that Azerbaijani police at the checkpoint were charging fees from trucks arriving from Iran. Iranian drivers told 'CivilNet' that officials at the Azerbaijani police checkpoint demanded they pay a cash fee of $130 to pass through Azerbaijani territory.

Later, the State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan commented on these reports: "According to Article 210 of the Tax Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, foreign state vehicles entering and exiting the country are subject to taxation. According to the code, vehicles are subject to road tax, as well as a state fee for obtaining permission to regulate international road transport in Azerbaijan."

Infocom sent an inquiry to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Armenia, requesting clarification regarding the reports of checks on Iranian trucks and the collection of fees at the Azerbaijani police checkpoint. In response, the embassy stated that Iran is closely monitoring the developments in the Caucasus region in recent months, particularly regarding reports of fees charged on Iranian vehicles heading to Armenia since September 12.

"Iran is trying to use its capabilities for regional development, peace, and stability with the participation of all neighbors. Therefore, it is especially important to develop relations with friendly Armenia and eliminate obstacles and issues along the way. Iran will pursue various ways to facilitate trade with neighboring countries, including Armenia," the embassy's response noted.

According to the embassy, relations with neighbors are a priority for Iran: "Under President Ebrahim Raisi's government, relations with neighbors are one of the main directions of foreign policy. Therefore, Tehran will expand its relations with all neighboring countries with a balanced but prioritized approach."