Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28
By Farhad Daneshvar - Trend:
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has urged Saudi Arabia to resolve the existing tensions between the Kingdom and the Islamic Republic through diplomacy and rational solutions.
He made the remarks at a joint press conference with his French counterpart Francois Hollande at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Iran's state-run TV IRINN reported Jan. 28.
The crisis between Riyadh and Tehran erupted after execution of a prominent Shia cleric, Nimr al-Nimr by the Saudis on Jan. 2.
Following the execution, angry Iranian protesters attacked Saudi embassy in Tehran and consulate in Mashhad. Right after the attacks on its diplomatic missions, the Saudi Arabia said it severed ties with the Islamic Republic.
Rouhani, further addressing the press conference, said the issues of Lebanon, Syria and Iraq are of high importance for both Iran and Paris.
Speaking about the need for serious fight against terrorism, he called for protecting Iraq's integrity.
Rouhani also expressed his happiness over resuming trade ties with France and said the bilateral relations will be in favor of both Tehran and Paris.
The president also said the ties between Iran and France will not be limited to trade only, and called for expansion of cooperation in tourism, environmental and regional issues.
Rouhani added he had discussions with Airbus and Total officials earlier today, and thanked French officials for hospitality.
Today, Iran and France signed at least 20 business deals, including a deal on the purchase of the Airbus planes.