Navy Chief Urges Establishment Of Regional Security Without Foreign Presence

Tehran, March 10, IRNA – Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari Sunday in Muscat underlined the need for establishment of security in the region without presence of foreign forces. Sayyari made the remarks in a meeting with Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman Rear Admiral Abdullah bin Khamis bin Abdullah Al Raisi. The Iranian commander stressed that there is no need for presence of foreign forces in the region while regional states are capable of bringing about security to the entire region. As to Tehran-Muscat cooperation, Sayyari said the two can continue conducting joint maneuvers and naval exercises. He added the two brotherly countries can also ensure security in the entire region including the strategic Strait of Hormuz with the help of other regional states. Iranˈs Navy is ready to host the Omani vessels in Bandar Abbas, in the southern province of Hormuzgan, Sayyari noted. For his part, the Omani commander welcomed expansion of naval cooperation with Iran and voiced his countryˈs readiness to hold joint naval drills with the Islamic Republic. He also said Oman welcomes presence of Iranian ships and vessels in its ports. Iranˈs Navy commander, heading a high-ranking military delegation, is currently in Oman. The trip is aimed at boosting close and amicable ties between the two nations./end