PESHAWAR: Iranian Consul General Mohammad Bagher Beigi has said that cooperation among the states and implementation of international laws were imperative for stability and development in the region.

Talking to journalists at Iranian Cultural Centre here on Thursday, he said that Iran was a responsible state, which was fully abiding by international laws and conventions. He said that implementation of international laws was essential for global peace.

The cultural centre had organised food festival in connection with the 39 anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Iranian cuisines were put on display in the festival that was attended by a large number of people.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Deputy Speaker Dr Meher Taj Roghani was the chief guest on the occasion. The centre also organised photo exhibition showcasing rare glimpse of the 1979 revolution.

Bagher Beigi said that his country was making progress in different fields despite severe economic sanctions imposed by America and some regional countries. But he did not name the regional countries.

The Iranian consul general said that provision of justice to the people was main component of the revolution. He said that functions were being organised in different parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to highlight achievements of the revolution.

The Iranian envoy also spoke as chief guest at the ‘archery championship’ organised at Qayyum Sports Complex here on Thursday.

He said that relations between Pakistan and Iran were based on historical and religious linkages. “I am here to open a new page in Pak-Iran relationship,” he added.

The envoy said that there was a lot of scope for increasing ‘sports relations’ so that the youth of both the countries could get benefit from each other’s expertise.

He said that peace in the region was their common goal and Iran would support Pakistan to develop and become secure.

The envoy said that cordial bilateral ties between Iran and Pakistan were beneficial for the people of both the countries. He expressed his commitment to play role in enhancement of the bilateral trade between the two countries.

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2018