Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 10
By Fatih Karimov – Trend:
Through the expansion of its natural gas sector, Iran is ready to increase the security of the energy supply in Asia, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said.
Addressing the 2nd Asia Cooperation Dialogue Summit in Thailand on Oct. 10, Rouhani said that the Islamic Republic is eager to play an active role in Asian collaborations by taking part in production, developing new markets and providing secure energy, the state-run IRINN TV reported.
He further said that Tehran is seeking to become a new hub in rail, air and sea transportation in West Asia through developing its capacities and with an active role in Eurasian transport network.
“Asia’s power is dependent on self-confidence and a shared will for convergence,” Rouhani said, adding that by connecting the east and west of Asia, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue can help expand economic cooperation and create a promising vision of peace and stability.
Security and stability are the prerequisites for development, as development is imperative for ensuring security and stability, he said.
Rouhani added that Iran stands up strong against the expansion of extremism and terrorism in the region.
“We cannot talk about security while ignoring terrorist atrocities in Iraq and Syria, or the bombardment of women and children in Yemen,” he said.
Hassan Rouhani is in Thailand, on the final leg of his three-nation tour of Southeast Asia. President Rouhani left Malaysian capital city of Kuala Lumpur Oct. 8 for Thailand to discuss expansion of trade ties.
The Iranian president launched his Asian tour Oct. 5. The Vietnamese capital of Hanoi was his first destination.
Before departure, Rouhani briefed reporters about his agenda of talks in the three countries. He described Asia as a highly important continent for Iran, adding, “The 21st century belongs to Asia.”
An economic delegation has accompanied President Rouhani during the visit where a couple of documents on cooperation have already been signed.