Rouhani made the remarks during his press conference with the Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi on Tuesday in Tehran.
“I paid my first European visit to Italy and the visit of the Italian premier today conveys the clear message of both countries’ will to expand ties in fields of economy, science and culture,” underlined the president.
“Measures have to be taken to put into action the numerous MoUs signed between Tehran and Rome; Iran and Italy have inked 30 Memoranda of Understanding in Rome and 6 in Tehran the implementation of which could pave the way for further expansion of economic ties particularly in fields of investment and technology transfer,” Rouhani said.
President Rouhani, noting the long-lasting and valuable friendly relations, asserted the moderate approach of Italy during difficult times particularly the era of anti-Iran sanctions and added “although Italy is not a member of 5+1, but made its contribution to nuclear negotiations by constructive role Mrs. Mogherini had during the talks.”
“Although the banking sanctions are removed, yet the psychological aspect of them is still effective and we need more consideration in this regard; I’m glad that Italy is acting as a pioneer European state on expanding the ties with Iran,” said he.
Considering the regional and international issues particularly terrorism, Rouhani reiterated that no religion in the world supports terrorism and all convey the message of peace and humanity, adding, “Iran and Italy will cooperate in possible fields of Islam and Christianity to stress their similarities.”
Regional crises in Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria and Iraq and the ways to help settle them down as well as humanitarian situation of the refugees were also discussed by Rouhani and Renzi.
Italian premier, for his part, noting the friendly ties of Tehran and Rome, expressed his gratitude to President Rouhani on his warm welcome.
“Nuclear deal has been sealed on the basis of mutual understanding and trust; mutual trust sets the ground for expansion of economic and trade ties in the international scenes,” said Renzi.
He continued “establishing stable economic ties needs the involvement of some institutions including banks; therefore the delegation I have in my accompany includes high-ranking representatives of financial organizations of Italy.”
“One of the issues Iran and Italy hold a similar view is the human rights and its protection; we also share President Rouhani’s view that religion is for peace and stability,” asserted the Italian prime minister and added “the idea that Islam is related to violence and extremism has to be confronted and I agree with President Rouhani that one effective means in this regard is cultural activities.”
Given the next G7 Summit which would be hosted by Italy, Renzi said “the meeting will discuss the issue and the possible ways to expand and deepen the cultural and Islamic values of moderate thoughts that avoid extremeism ; meanwhile we will try to remove the remained sanctions and create a more proper atmosphere for furthering of economic ties.”
PT