Iran, Sudan stress promotion of ties

TEHRAN, Oct. 15, 2003 (IRNA) — Iran and Sudan stressed here Wednesday expansion of bilateral ties in various fields. Iran’s Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref, in a meeting with visiting Sudanese Minister of Interior Abdelrahim Mohamed Hussein, termed bilateral relations as “good”.

Aref said expansion of ties with Sudan would not only benefit the two nations but would be in the interest of the Islamic world.

He stressed the need to exchange visits between the two countries` officials to explore bilateral potential. He also
underscored strengthening of cultural, economic, scientific and commercial ties between Tehran and Khartoum.

The first vice president lauded Sudan’s valuable efforts to establish peace and security in southern parts of that country and voiced Iran’s support for establishment of peace and stability in Sudan.

Aref also stressed the need for immediate withdrawal of occupation forces from Iraq and transfer of the country’s administration to its
own nation.

He said any peace plan ignoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people would not be durable.

Mohamed Hussein, for his part, expressed appreciation for Iran’s efforts to restore peace and stability in the region and called for promotion of bilateral cooperation in various fields of mutual interests.

He said Iran and Sudan share close stance and views on international events including Iraq, Palestine and peaceful use of nuclear energy and appreciated Iran’s support for establishment of peace and stability in southern Sudan.