TEHRAN The Majlis Vice-Speaker Hassan Ruhani said here Sunday that although Spain, as a member of the European Union, follows the EU's policies, political ups and down have not affected Tehran-Madrid relations. Making the remark in a meeting with Spanish Ambassador to Tehran Gabriel Busquets, he added that parliamentary talks will lead to further promotion of the two countries' ties. Fortunately, Ruhani said, the EU policies are moving towards adopting realistic policies.

Referring to Iran-Spain cultural and social affinity, he called for further bolstering of bilateral cooperation. The Iranian vice-speaker expressed the hope that Tehran-Madrid relations would be strengthened through holding various seminars and setting up different exhibitions. The Spanish ambassador said that his country considers the Islamic Republic of Iran as its reliable partner. As for Iran's strategically important geographical location in the Middle East region and the entire world, busquets voiced Madrid's interest in expanding ties with Iran. (IRNA)