Azerbaijan, Baku / corr Trend .A.Gasimova / President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Wednesday that the Caspian Sea provides its littoral states with an exclusive opportunity in line with the interests of regional nations, IRNA reports.
Ahmadinejad made these remarks in a meeting with foreign ministers of the littoral states of the Caspian Sea.
He said that the countries enjoy common cultures, history, interests and foes; therefore, they should resolve initial issues in favour of regional welfare.
Pointing to the fact that certain powers are to turn the issue of the Caspian Sea into a challenge among regional countries to serve their own interests, he called on the nations to pursue constructive cooperation and hinder intervention of other countries in this respect.
"Certain bullying powers are after oil and energy resources of the Caspian Sea, however, the environment and security of the sea have major impacts on the life of the littoral states."
Calling for ground preparations in establishing sustainable security in the Caspian Sea, the president said the governments around the sea should cooperate to prevent smuggling and organized crime and develop transportation networks for trade.