Iran role strategic in regional security: Indian VP

Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari has highlighted Iran’s position in the region, saying the Islamic Republic plays a strategic role in regional security.

In a Friday meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in New Delhi, the Indian vice president pointed to the commonalities and historical relations between the two countries and urged the further development of bilateral ties.
Zarif, for his part, said Tehran-New Delhi cooperation in different sectors contributes to regional security, and called for the removal of obstacles in the way of expanding bilateral ties.
He said that the administration of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani seeks to enhance Iran’s international relations, expressing hope that Iran and India would enhance cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields.
Zarif is in India on a two-day official visit to hold talks with senior Indian officials on issues of mutual interest, including regional and international developments.
Upon arrival at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on Thursday, Zarif said that Iran attaches great significance to its relations with India and that his visit aims to boost mutual cooperation in energy and banking sectors.
Zarif’s visit comes at the invitation of his Indian counterpart Salman Khurshid.
President Hassan Rouhani has stressed that the expansion of all-out relations with India is a priority in Iran’s foreign policy.