TEHRAN Commander of the Naval Forces of the Islamic Revolution's Guard Corps (IRGC) Rear Admiral Ali Akbar Ahmadian voiced Iran's readiness to pave the way for expansion of security cooperation of the Persian Gulf littoral states and promotion of defense cooperation among regional states. Dr. Ahmadian made the remark in a meeting with Omani Deputy Prime Minister for Security and Defense Affairs Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Hareb in Muscat Monday. In the meeting, the two sides reviewed the latest defense developments in the two countries, IRNA reported.

The Commander of Omani Naval Forces Shahab bin Tareq is to visit Iran in September to follow up the defense agreements reached between the two countries. In another meeting between Ahmadian and the Omani military officials on Monday, the two sides called for further promotion of bilateral relations in an effort to maintain peace and security in the Persian Gulf region.

Meanwhile, Ahmadian discussed with heads of the three branches of Omani government the most important military issues of mutual interest. According to another development, the Joint Military Friendship Committee of Iran and Oman was held on Monday. Different ways for the maintenance of security in the Persian Gulf region and further promotion of Tehran-Muscat military cooperation were also reviewed in the meeting.

Ahmadian arrived in Muscat on Saturday at the head of a high-ranking military delegation.