TEHRAN -- President Mohammad Khatami here on Wednesday lauded great services being rendered by staff of the Health Ministry and stressed that the society is heavily indebted to doctors and nurses in, particular, IRNA reported.

He made the remarks during a visit to Mirza Kouchak-Khan Hospital in central Tehran on the occasion of Nurse Day.

During the unexpected visit, the president inspected different wards of the hospital and talked to physicians and nurses there.

Addressing the staff of the hospital, he referred to nurses as "Symbols" of sacrifice and patience.

On problems facing the country's doctors and nurses, President Khatami expressed the hope that the existing problems would be settled soon.

Health Minister Masoud Pezeshkian accompanied President Khatami in his tour of Mirza Kouchak-Khan Hospital.