UN special representative winds up Iran visit

Tehran, May 24, IRNA - The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Staffan de Mistura, concluded his two-day official visit to Iran Sunday evening.

According to a press release issued by the UN Information Center (UNIC) here on Monday, Mistura met with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Office of the Supreme Leader, Drug Control Headquarters, and Parliament during his stay here.

Mistura's visit was aimed to brief Iranian authorities on the activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), which de Mistura heads, and to encourage further regional cooperation.

In this connection, Mistura appreciated the positive steps taken by Iran in tackling drug-trafficking issues, concurring with the Iranian wish to revitalize the Triangular Initiative, which has shown potential for further cooperation.

Following his constructive meetings, Mistura noted: "The Islamic Republic of Iran is an important neighbour and the UN will continue to facilitate constructive engagement with Afghan counterparts on issues of mutual concern towards furthering stability in Afghanistan which is in the interest of both countries and the international community at large."/end