TEHRAN -- Iran's successful policy of détente and push for dialogue among civilizations to enhance relations and to promote cooperation among world countries have lowered significantly the cost of maintaining national security, Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi said here Tuesday.

Kharrazi, at a meeting with the country's cultural attaches here for their annual seminar, highlighted the need to promote dialogue in dealing with international issues. The concept, having been first proposed by President Mohammad Khatami, would raise Iran's status in the global arena, he said.

He said the need to expand cultural relations with other countries was as pressing as that of enhancing diplomatic ties, and underscored the importance of promoting one or the other to promote ties in both areas.

He said the promotion of cultural activities would definitely enhance Iran's credibility in the international arena, and singled out dialogue among civilizations as having had a positive effect in minimizing threats leveled against the Islamic Republic.

Kharrazi went on to speak about world cultural developments, and said Iran can use its rich cultural heritage to promote political ties with world countries by enhancing its cultural links with them.