TEHRAN The Italian Head of Iran-Italy Friendship Group Gianclaudio Bressa and some of the group's members met here Sunday with the Majlis Speaker Hojjatoleslam Ali Akbar Nateq Nouri. Pointing to the good relations between the two countries on the political and economic realms, the Majlis speaker remarked that Iran and Italy have their roots in ancient civilizations. Insofar as the long historical relations and the status quo, they certainly dictate a betterment of political, economic, cultural and parliamentary bilateral ties between the two countries.

Pointing to the opportunities at hand, Majlis speaker added that Iran with an ancient civilization, and a strategical status within the region, procures a good opportunity for Italy, while, in turn, Italy as an active member of the European Union reciprocally provides good opportunities for the Islamic Iran. Stating the general policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hojjatoleslam Nateq Nouri commented that the Islamic Iran vividly intends to establish ties with all countries based on mutual respect and the maintenance of its national interests.

He reiterated Iran movement as toward the eradication of regional tensions. Reasoning the above, he elaborated that growth and development of the countries is preconditioned on stability and security, however, some elements dislike the establishment of peace in the region and the world, in order to attain their ominous goals. While gratifying the positive stance of Italy toward Iran, Majlis speaker referred to some governments and parliaments acting well-experienced, like Italy, compared to others like the U.S. Senate's inexperience, deeming itself at the pinnacle of the universe.

Welcoming the meetings of divine religions, Nateq Nouri said, The meetings on Islam and Christianity were held in the past, and we welcome it. He warned that the subversive terrorist groups intend to ruin the existing friendly ties between the European countries and Iran with making the Iranian officials abroad feel unsafe. Hence, he reiterated, this issue of concern seeks the alertness of these friendly countries and their appropriate conduct with these terrorist elements.

Meanwhile, Bressa called for the betterment of bilateral ties between the two countries. Bressa elaborated his trip to Iran for the coverage of issues on environment, struggle against illicit drugs, and culture and economy. On Saturday, the Italian delegation met with the Iranian Head of Iran-Italy Parliamentary Friendship Group Mohsen Yahyavi. In the meeting, Bressa lauded the significant role Iran plays in the region and the world, underlining the need for further expansion of cooperation particularly between the parliamentary friendship groups.

Referring to the historical and cultural bonds between the two countries, Yahyavi said, We welcome all suggestions made by the friendship group on further expansion of relations based on mutual respect and political interests of the two countries.'' He also expressed Iran's readiness to cooperate with Italy in cultural, social and political areas.