TEHRAN -- Head of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization (ICRO) said that the ancient cordial relations between Iranian and Indian nations, which dates back to thousands of years, stem from the thoughts which ascribe priority to divinity. Mahmoud Mohammadi Araqi made the remark in a message to the 23rd International Seminar of Indian Association of Persian Language Professors which opened in Patna, the capital of Bihar state on Monday.

The seminar is a great opportunity to underscore the ancient relations, which exist between the peoples living in this vast region, he said.

The message also said that promotion of Persian language in the Indian subcontinent and invitation extended to the Iranian writers, poets and artists to go to India and providing them with necessary backing had turned the cordial relations between the two countries into a permanent friendship.

He added that the seminar of Indian professors of Persian language and the participation of Iranian professors in the gathering would further strengthen bilateral relations.

Some 30 Iranian professors and scholars attended the gathering, which is held in one of Indian cities every year.