Japan's FM terms Iran a regional power

Visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone here on Saturday referred to Iran as a regional power which plays a key and constructive role in establishment of stability throughout the region.

He made the remarks while addressing a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki.

Nakasone underlined the need for continued cooperation between the Islamic Republic and the international community on various issues, particularly on the country’s peaceful nuclear program.

Tehran has so far taken positive and constructive steps towards talks with members of the Group 5+1 on Iran’s nuclear activities, he added.

He called on Tehran to pursue the new approach of President Barack Obama regarding talks with Iran.

The Japanese foreign minister reiterated that Tokyo respects Tehran, underscoring the need for resolve of Iran’s nuclear issue through peaceful means.

On the critical situation in Afghanistan, he said Iran and Japan have had close cooperation on the reconstruction of the war-torn country, fight against production of narcotic drugs and assisting Afghan refugees.

He further praised Iran’s key role in the restoration of peace and stability to Afghanistan.

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