TEHRAN Italian Interior Minister Enzo Bianco here yesterday met President Khatami and discussed bilateral ties.

Iran attaches special importance to its relations with Italy, the president said.

Khatami referred to his trip to Italy as his first foreign visit; saying mutual cooperation is necessary for materializing the agreements signed between the two sides.

He praised Italy's independent policy and said that Italy's relation with other countries is based on mutual respect.

The Islamic Revolution was a move for gaining independence, he said adding, today the Iranian nation has decided to establish its democracy on the basis of its culture and religion.

The dtente policy over the past three years has paid off, he said, adding, a new ear has begun between Iran and Europe on the basis of our dtente policy.

The Italian minister on his part said, the Italian Prime Minister would soon visit Iran, which should open a new chapter in the bilateral relations of the two countries.

Referring to the EU's willingness to expand ties with Iran, he said, Italy is ready to help Iran in its development efforts.