Iran, GCC to promote ties: FM

TEHRAN, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) — Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi and Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi have called for promoting bilateral ties and cooperation.
In a phone call, both sides expressed willingness to improve bilateral relations and interaction and discussed ways to expand ties and cooperation between Iran and the GCC, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry on Friday.
Albudaiwi congratulated Araghchi on his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister, stressing Iran’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
He said the GCC member states are interested in consulting and interacting with Iran on major challenges in the West Asia region.
Araghchi, in response, expressed his appreciation for the GCC chief’s congratulations, emphasizing that Iran is committed to enhancing “friendly and brotherly” relations with the GCC and its member states.
He added that Iran believes its ties with the council should advance into a new phase of mutual understanding and cooperation. ■