President: Iran gives high priority to ties with Islamic states, neighbors

Tehran, March 12, IRNA - President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that Iran attaches great importance to ties with the Islamic countries, particularly the littoral states of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman due to significance of the strategic Hormuz Straight. President: Iran gives high priority to ties with Islamic states, neighbors Presidnet Rouhani made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the airport prior to his departure for Oman. Oman has a strategically important position at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. As it is bordered by the Hormuz Straight in one side and also shares a marine border with Iran. Iran has always had friendly relations with Oman, the President said, adding that Tehran is currently more determined to further strengthen bilateral ties with Muscat. President Rouhani’s visit to Oman is taking place at the invitation of Sultan Qaboos made during the latter’s visit to Iran in mid-September 2013. Referring to the agreements signed during Sultan Qaboos’ visit to Tehran, President Rouhani said during his two-day visit to Oman he is to follow up the implementation process of the previous agreements. He is also to discuss major regional and international issues with Sultan Qaboos as well as other senior officials of the Arab state. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh, Central Bank of Iran Governor Valiollah Seif, IRNA Managing Director Mohammad Khodadi and a number of other senior officials are accompanying President Rouhani.