Iran, most powerful regional country: Aoun

Tehran, Oct 13, IRNA - Leader of Lebanese Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) Party Michel Aoun said on Monday that Iran is the most powerful country in the region.

The visiting Aoun made the remark in a joint press conference with
Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki.

He said several Lebanese groups had criticized him for visiting the
Islamic Republic, adding that Iran is a friendly country to the
Lebanese nation.

Asked whether his trip to Iran would melt the existing ice between the
Islamic Republic of Iran and the Lebanese Christian groups, Aoun
reiterated that there is no ice between the two sides.

He said that there is deep friendship between Iran and the Lebanese nation.

Aoun, heading a delegation, arrived in Tehran Sunday to review issues
of mutual interest with senior Iranian officials.

Prior to his departure, Aoun told IRNA that his visit is aimed at
bolstering ties with the Mideast states.

During his five-day stay, Aoun is to meet President Mahmoud
Ahmadinejad, Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki and Majlis Speaker
Ali Larijani.