TEHRAN (IRNA) -- Former French foreign minister Roland Dumas here stressed that establishment of democracy in the Middle East region was only a pretext for the U.S. to interfere in the regional affairs.

He made the remark in a meeting with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Euro-American Affairs, Saeed Jalili.

On the U.S. interference in the Mideast affairs, he said wherever the U.S. was present, the situation became more complicated and deteriorated. He then cited Afghanistan, Iraq and Lebanon as clear examples of the U.S. interference.

Dumas further praised Iran's key role and strategic position in the regional developments.

Referring to Tehran-Paris friendly and profound relations, he stressed that the two countries still enjoy amicable political, economic, and cultural cooperation. As to the West's opposition to Iran's peaceful nuclear program, he said, "I have told my friends in France that the more pressures are exerted on Iran, the more united, more determined and more developed they will become."

Jalili, for his part, said Tehran and Paris share several commonalities in different areas.

He further stressed that Tehran and Paris can play a crucial role in establishing regional peace and stability.