He emphasized, “Until now, we have primarily relied on hard power to assert our state authority. Now that Iran’s capability in safeguarding its national security, territorial integrity, and deterring any aggression against it, what is universally recognized by others, the time has come to utilize our soft power in light of our hard power.”

Kharrazi elaborated, “Our foremost soft power lies in proactive diplomacy.” Referring to the tools of such diplomacy, he added, “We must invest seriously in formal diplomacy, unofficial diplomacy, and public diplomacy, as we need to engage with the others, utilizing a new language.”

Analyzing regional developments, Dr. Kharrazi noted, “Recent events indicate that the Israeli regime, in line with its long-standing policy of ‘From the Nile to the Euphrates’, is advancing its expansionist agenda in the region. Shared concerns among regional countries about the future, necessitate a serious dialogue between Iran and Arab states.”

He underscored the role of research institutions in advancing unofficial diplomacy and soft power, mentioning the upcoming “Tehran Forum” and the fourth round of “Iranian-Arab Dialogue” in Doha as key opportunities for engagement.