Rouhani: Iran determined to promote ties with EU countries

Tehran, Nov 22, IRNA – President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday that Iran is resolved to expand relations with friendly countries, particularly those in the European Union. Rouhani made the remarks in a meeting in Tehran with a top-ranking Slovenian delegation led by President Borut Pahor. The visit to Tehran by the Slovenian delegation can undoubtedly serve as a turning point in the history of relations between the two countries. Underlining the need for joint banking and insurance cooperation as a key step to develop Iran-Slovenia trade and economic relations, the president noted that banking and insurance relations serve to regulate trade and commerce between the two nations. The Slovenian president, for his part, said that reopening his country's embassy in Tehran is a sign of the Slovenian resolve to promote all-out ties with Tehran. Today the time is ripe for upgrading Iran-Slovenia relations to the highest level, President Pahor said. 'We have to make every effort to enhance the level of Iran-Slovenia trade to more than five-fold,' he added. Noting that the European Union is proud of playing a positive role in Iran nuclear talks, President Pahor said that the Western parties have to remain committed to their promises with regard to the nuclear deal. 1378/IRNA