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Major powers spreading extremism in region

MottakiIranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki criticized certain major powers for their contribution in spreading extremism in the region.

The minister made the remarks in a meeting with visiting New Zealand Deputy Foreign Minister Peter Hamilton here on Saturday.

Mottaki emphasized that extremism is not limited to a particular geographical area and criticized the major powers for giving financial and military supports to extremist groups.

He also slammed the U.S. foreign policy during George W. Bush’s administration and pointed out that the United States should adopt a new stance toward the issues in the Middle East.

The Iranian foreign minister added that Tehran and Wellington has much potential to expand cooperation in different areas and that the two countries have not utilized their full potential capacity.

He also stated that Iran welcomes New Zealand’s interest in the establishment of free trade with Iran.

Hamilton, for his part, emphasized that consultations with Iran about a variety of regional and international issues is important to Wellington.

The people and the government of New Zealand are familiar with the history of Iran and value the expansion of bilateral ties with Tehran, the New Zealand diplomat stated.

He also praised efforts by the Islamic Republic in settling regional disputes and helping to stabilize Afghanistan and its sacrifices in the campaign against drug trafficking.

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