Iran Caretaker FM Avows Commitment to Amirabdollahian’s Policies

In a message released on Tuesday night, caretaker foreign minister, Ali Baqeri Kani, paid tribute to Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian who died in a helicopter crash along with President Ebrahim Raisi on May 19.

Here is the full text of his message, published in the Foreign Ministry’s website:

"In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate

My colleagues and I in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offer condolences to the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Imam Khamenei (may his life be long), the honorable families, and the noble nation of Iran, over the martyrdom of Ayatollah Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, the beloved and valiant president, Mr. Amirabdollahian, the honorable and revolutionary Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ayatollah Al-e-Hashem, the honorable Friday Prayers Leader of Tabriz, and their companions, on the path of rendering another service to the people as well as deepening peace and friendship among the nations of the region.

Ayatollah Raisi and Mr. Amirabdollahian had the honor of serving the sacred Establishment of the Islamic Republic and the noble nation of Iran in their blessed lives, and their departure while on duty is the best divine reward for the chosen warriors of God.

During my collaboration with Ayatollah Raisi, a servant of Imam Reza, in both his positions as the Chief of the Judiciary and the head of the executive branch of power, and during my cooperation with Mr. Amirabdollahian, I have closely witnessed their lasting and impactful services to the sacred Islamic Establishment and their deep love for the honorable nation of Islamic Iran.

Ayatollah Raisi, during his distinguished services in various positions, including during his presidency, showcased aspects of revolutionary and diligent governance by providing outstanding services to the dear people of Iran in various fields.

The late president meticulously pursued diplomacy based on the strategic principle of "dignity, wisdom, expediency" with the aim of the comprehensive defense of the rights of the great Iranian nation, strengthening cooperation in foreign relations with a priority on good neighborliness policy, further elevating the position of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the international system, supporting the oppressed nation of Palestine and other oppressed peoples against the tyranny of global arrogance and the criminal Zionist regime.

Mr. Amirabdollahian's deep understanding, as a close and compassionate aide to the honorable president, of the resistance front, the people, and the countries of the region was a pivotal center for advancing the foreign policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including in the field of good neighborliness policy, enhancing friendly relations with nations and governments, and defending the Palestinian people.

His dedication to the prosperity and security of the region's nations, especially during his tenure as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, was exemplary, and his departure while on the return from another arena of service in this direction serves as another testament to this claim.

The character and performance of my dear brother Hossein Amirabdollahian reflected his deep, heartfelt belief in the original principles of the Islamic Revolution and his concern for maximizing Islamic and national interests.

His tireless and selfless efforts to achieve the goals of the Islamic Republic of Iran's foreign policy, especially in supporting the axis of resistance, developing ever more friendship with neighbors and solidarity with Muslims, strengthening relations with emerging powers and new multilateral alliances, and his high moral virtues, including good manners and humility, will be remembered forever.

The loss of these dear martyrs is a significant loss for the sacred Establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the entire Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Indeed, their valuable and high-minded thoughts and policies for advancing Iran's foreign policy, including in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will continue using all capacities, and efforts will be made to ensure that this unfortunate incident will not hinder the serious duties and responsibilities of the sincere servants of the Iranian nation in the diplomatic apparatus.

Additionally, I sincerely thank and appreciate the condolence messages and sympathies from various segments of the people and officials from other countries in this regard. Undoubtedly, the great nation of Iran is grateful to its servants, and it will continue its bright path relying on the inexhaustible divine power and the wise guidance of the Supreme Leader (may his life be long).

I sincerely ask God Almighty for the exaltation of the ranks, and divine mercy for the pure souls of the martyrs of this accident, and great patience for the survivors."