Iran has always been seeking regional peace, stability: Oman king

TEHRAN, May 8 (MNA) -- Sultan Qaboos of Oman has said that Iran has been always seeking to promote peace and security in the region.

The sultan made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi in Muscat on Wednesday.

“We strongly believe that the Islamic Republic of Iran, as an important country, has been always seeking (to promote) peace and security in the region,” the sultan stated.

Certain countries are seeking to sow discord among regional nations, so it is necessary to keep vigilance in the face of such plots.

He added, “Good relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Oman will serve the interests of both countries and all regional nations.”

Oman’s sultan also pointed to the pro-democracy protests in the region and said the people’s demands must be taken into consideration.

Salehi said that the regional states should work together to help settle the crisis in the countries where people are seeking a change in their governments.

Commenting on the worsening crisis in Bahrain, he said, “The deployment of foreign troops in Bahrain has not only not resolved the problem, but has also aggravated the situation.”

The Bahraini officials are expected to take measures to fulfill the demands of the people, Salehi added.

Salehi also held talks with Omani Foreign Minister Youssef bin Alawi bin Abdullah in Muscat on Wednesday.

They also explored ways to increase relations between Tehran and Muscat in various areas including political, economic, and cultural fields.