TEHRAN, Jun. 20 (MNA) – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani voiced the country’s readiness to expand cooperation with Malaysia in fighting terrorism and extremism in the region.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani made the remarks in a meeting on Tuesday while receiving the letter of credence of the newly-appointed Ambassador of Malaysia to Tehran.

"Violent and extremist views, which we are witnessing today, are very dangerous for the region and the Islamic world,” Rouhani said, adding “Iran and Malaysia can cooperate with each other in combating terrorism, promoting cultural ties in the Islamic world, along with deepening economic and trade relations.”

"The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to develop its ties with Malaysia in other fields, including energy and tourism," President Rouhani added.

Rouhani went on to describe Malaysia as a developing country among Islamic states which promotes the merciful and moderate views of Islam, adding “deepening cultural and social relations between countries that believe in moderate Islam is very important.”

For his part, the new Ambassador of Malaysia to Tehran, Dato Rustam bin Yahaya, voiced his country’s willingness cement ties with the Islamic Republic of Iran in all fields, particularly in economy.

Also on Tuesday, President Rouhani received credentials of the newly-appointed ambassadors of Slovenia and Benin to Tehran.

During his meeting with Slovenian ambassador, Kristina Radej, President Rouhani stressed that that implementing Tehran-Ljubljana agreements was essential for deepening relations between the two countires. Ms. Radej, for her part, maintained that there is no obstacle on the path of developing Iran-Slovenia ties, adding “we will spare no effort in developing relations and implementing the agreements made between the two countries."

During his meeting with the new Ambassador of Benin to Tehran, Naim Akibo, President Rouhani said that the only way to resolve the issues of the Middle East and Africa is political dialogue and cooperation and consultation with African countries is essential for confronting with extremism and terrorism.

He went on to describe the logic of terrorism as imposing force, arms and violence on nations, adding "we believe that people themselves must choose their political paths and lives and the young population must be taught that freedom of choice is the foundation of advancement and progress."

Mr. Akibo, for his part, praised President Rouhani's efforts to establish peace and stability in the region, adding "Benin is willing to take advantage of Iranian experts' capabilities and technical knowledge."

Africa and Benin in particular need to further cooperation with Iran because the Islamic Republic has a more profound understanding of African countries' problems and issues, said Akibo.

He also expressed his condolences over the recent terrorist attacks in Tehran.

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