Common agreement on Caspian Sea status reached: Iranian FM

“The common agreement on the status of the Caspian Sea has been reached," said Iranian Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki at a press conference held for foreign journalists who attended the 16th International Fair of Press and News Agencies in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Mottaki said the Caspian littoral states held a five lateral meeting in Baku recently to determine legal status of the Caspian Sea.

“The Caspian Sea is an important sea for its environmental, energy and natural resources. There are agreements between the countries on demilitarization and security of the Caspian Sea. There is an agreement on non-allowance to foreign ships and there is no trans-Caspian energy transportation," the minister said.

The minister said they have agreed to establish the environmental secretariat for use and protection of the Caspian natural resources.

“Iran and Azerbaijan nominated their candidacy to host the Secretariat”.

Mottaki said the status talks were continued and they have reached a common agreement, but he didn’t divulge exact date when the final decision will be made.

“I hope the talks will be finalized with the decisions favorable to all Caspian littoral states," Mottaki added.

/APA/