TEHRAN -- Afghan Ambassador to Russia Ahmad Zia Masoud in Moscow on Tuesday described the visit by Iranian President Mohammad Khatami to Kabul as a significant and historic event and a step forward, heralding a new chapter in mutual relations.

Masoud said that President Khatami's visit is a sign that Iran, given its significant role in promoting regional stability, is trying to help the Afghan administration solve its problems.

He expressed his appreciation for the assistance Tehran provided to the Afghans in their struggles to oust the Soviet occupiers and the Taleban militia and said Iran's backing had played an important role in determining the fate of the Afghans.

Masoud recalled the cultural and religious affinities between Iran and Afghanistan and said that he hoped that the two countries would cooperate in forging closer ties in all areas.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Afghan ambassador said rebuilding Afghanistan topped the agenda of the Afghan administration and expressed hope that Iran would help in the reconstruction of war-ravaged Afghanistan.

President Khatami, heading a high-ranking political, cultural and economic delegation visited Kabul Tuesday for talks on issues such as the anti-drug campaign, the return of Afghan refugees, and Iran's participation in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.