TEHRAN – Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi met on Monday with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif to discuss a range of bilateral, regional and international issues.

The two ministers underlined the importance of stability, security and productive cooperation in the region, particularly among Afghans under the current circumstances, IRNA reported.

Qureshi said Pakistan desires to further promote its political and economic ties with Iran. He said improving relations with all neighbors is the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy.

Zarif agreed with Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s views, saying Iran is also committed to improve its relations and bilateral cooperation with Pakistan. 

The Pakistani minister is on a four-nation tour, including Afghanistan, Iran, China and Russia as part of his government’s policy of outreach in the neighborhood. Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and senior Foreign Ministry officials were accompanying Qureshi.

“I will visit these four countries... as contacting the leadership of these countries is the part of agenda for the restoration of peace in the region,” the minister said ahead of his tour.

He also said that restoration of peace in Afghanistan would bring stability in the region. “We are in favor of the restoration of peace in Afghanistan as eradication of terrorism in that country will bring peace in Pakistan as well.”

MH/PA