The deputy foreign minister expressed hope that independence, freedom, strength, progress, stability and integrity would be promoted in Egypt.
In a joint meeting between the foreign ministry's Institute for Political and International Studies (IPIS) and the Egyptian Al-Ahram Foundation in Tehran on Saturday, Hossein Amir Abdollahian said, "Iran wishes (to see) an independent, free, strong, developed, stable and integrated Egypt, which plays an influential and creative role in regional and international developments," IRNA reported.
He continued, "Iran is honestly prepared to cooperate with Egypt to normalize Tehran-Cairo relations, which requires a decision on the part of the Egyptian side."
The deputy foreign minister for Arab and African affairs said, "Tehran is ready to expand cordial relations with Egypt which is a major and influential state in the region with no preconditions."
He referred to his recent meeting with the Egyptian president in Addis Ababa and said, "Iran and Egypt are able to fulfill the demands of their nations for closer relations through dialogue."
The official touched on some differences between Tehran and Cairo and said, "Dialogue and passage of time can help create an opportunity for opening a new chapter in the two countries' relations."
"Iran and Egypt enjoyed good cooperation over the past year on issues such as terrorism and (the developments) in Syria and Iraq."
Amir Abdollahian said Iran condemns terrorism in any form, including the recent terrorist actions in Egypt.
Referring to formation of the new parliament in Egypt, he expressed hope that the new parliament would represent all Egyptian groups to prevent the country from being divided.
The diplomat said, "We recognize the Egyptians a religious and cultured nation with a (great) history and civilization and believe that violent and takfiri actions have nothing to do with this nation."
He added, "Iran welcomes the approaches of the Egyptian government on expansion of ties with the world's countries, particularly with Islamic countries."
