Constructive Ties With Uzbekistan

Foreign Minister Javad Zarif expressed satisfaction over Tehran-Tashkent ties, saying both countries are starting new and constructive relations. “A new and constructive era in Iran-Uzbek ties is being formed in the interest of both peoples,” Zarif said. He made the remark Tuesday in a meeting with the Secretary of the National Security Council of Uzbekistan Viktor Makhmudov, IRNA reported. Developing two-way cooperation is in line with reinforcing regional cooperation, maintaining peace, stability and security in the region, he added. Zarif said Iran strives for a strong region based on cooperation among nations. Makhmudov, for his part, described as constructive his meetings with senior officials in Tehran. He pointed to historical and cultural commonalities between the two countries and their common stances with regard to regional and international issues. Uzbekistan believes in promoting relations in all fields with Iran, namely transit, transportation, energy, cultural exchanges and tourism, he said.