TEHRAN – President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that Iran is determined to expand relations with different countries especially its neighbors.

Iran has always sought to help establish stability and peace in the world particularly in the Middle East region, he said during a meeting with Iranian residents in Turkey.

“Today, Iran is a stable and safe country in the region and there are good investment opportunities that can be used in the best possible way,” he said.

He urged all the Iranians to make efforts in line with the country’s development and progress.

The president also said expansion of Iran-Turkey ties is in the interest of both countries.

Elsewhere, Rouhani noted national unity, guidelines set by the Supreme Leader, and capable negotiators contributed to the conclusion of nuclear talks between Iran and great powers.

Iran’s agreement with the 5+1 group (the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany) restored Iranians’ right to enjoy peaceful nuclear technology, he added.

Rouhani highlighted the importance of using opportunities created after the nuclear deal to strengthen economy.

Iran and the 5+1 finalized the text of the nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in Vienna on July 14, 2015, which went into effect in January, 2016.

NA/PA