ISTANBUL: Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov highlighted the increasing significance of regional dialogue and cooperation in response to the escalating activities of foreign forces in the region. During his speech at a meeting in the "3+3" format held in Istanbul, Bayramov addressed concerns about controversial militarization and geopolitical escalation by external entities, which he noted were creating divisive lines in the region. According to Trend News Agency, Bayramov elaborated on Azerbaijan's approach to regional integration since regaining independence, focusing on mutual respect and a balance of interests with neighboring states. This strategy has culminated in several significant projects, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and the North-South Transportation Corridor. Additionally, Bayramov expressed optimism about the completion of communications infrastructure linking the Eastern Zangezur economic region and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic through Iran. The meeting in Istanbul follows a previous "3+3" format assembly, which took place in Tehran on October 23 last year, involving the Foreign Ministers of Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, and Armenia. This diplomatic platform aims to enhance collaboration and address regional security issues collectively.