Iran Urges Collective Efforts to Rid Region of Militarism

In a telephone conversation with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Monday, President Rouhani said the most basic challenge facing the region is militarism by certain countries as well as the Zionist regime.

“We must do our best to get the region out of the current state of militarism,” he stressed.

The president noted that establishment of peace and stability in the region is among the main policies of Iran, which is pursued by all Iranian administrations.

He further hailed Qatar's stance on regional developments and said the ongoing crises in the region should be settled through peaceful means and negotiations.

"Today, an atmosphere of moderation and rationality prevails in regional developments and the need for the pursuit of a political solution to solve crises is felt more than ever," Rouhani stated.

He also noted that moderation, wisdom, constructive interaction and the settlement of disputes through negotiations form the unchanging approach of the Islamic Republic, Press TV reported.

"Iran and Qatar share very close positions and policies on stability and balance in the region, and it is necessary for the two countries to strengthen their measures in this regard with the help of other friends," Rouhani added.

The Qatari Emir, for his part, said Tehran and Doha enjoy cordial and good relations and added that there has been a turning point in bilateral ties over the past eight years, expressing hope that both sides would continue to develop cooperation.

Pointing to the sensitive situation in the region, Al Thani said his country believes that there is no military solution to regional conflicts as political approaches and talks constitute the best solution to the problems facing the region.

He also expressed hope that all regional countries would make efforts to improve cooperation in an effort to achieve peace.