BAKU (IRIB) -- The Head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) Ezzatollah Zarghami conferred with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev on Thursday.

Referring to the historical, cultural and religious commonalities between Azeri and Iranian nations, Aliyev called for expansion of bilateral ties.

He said that both nations are keen on deepening their relations, adding that the two nations' historical background and resolution necessitate the expansion of ties accordingly.

Aliyev called Iran as Azerbaijan's friend, adding Baku finds its relations with Tehran of high significance.

The president expressed his pleasure over the growing ties, wishing for further cooperation.

"Azerbaijan makes its foreign policy independently and it is not affected by outsiders," said Aliyev, adding that cooperation between the two neighboring countries is crucial for the establishment of sustainable peace and security in the region.

Recalling his visit to IRI and meetings with the Islamic Revolution Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and President Ahmadinejad, he said documents inked in Tehran have provided a proper ground for development of relations.

The Azeri President added that the visit resulted in export of Iran's gas to the autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan, prompting the people to praise their neighboring country's friendly act.

Aliyev asked the IRIB Head to convey his warm greetings to the Islamic Revolution Leader and President.

He also highlighted the role mass media in general and radio and television in particular play in familiarizing the two nations with each other and in paving the way for media cooperation that helps promote bilateral relations.

Zarghami, for his part, conveyed the sincere greetings of President Ahmadinejad to his Azeri counterpart, calling for reinforcement of ties in all areas particularly in media and Information Technology (IT) sectors.

The IRIB chief and his entourage arrived in the Azeri capital on Thursday on a four-day visit.