Iran`s Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi on Friday discussed bilateral relations, regional and global issues with his Pakistani counterpart Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri, IRNA reported from Islamabad.

The Iranian minister, who called on Kasuri here at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, exchanged views on regional cooperation during the meeting.

Kasuri, lauding Iran`s role, said that the Islamic Republic of Iran was a source of stability in the region, adding Tehran and Islamabad could boost bilateral cooperation in all fields of mutual interest.

He pointed out that the Western countries under one pretext or the other were building pressure on the Islamic nations. In this context, he made a special reference to propaganda against Iran`s peaceful nuclear technology, and alleged cooperation by some other states in this context.

The minister expressed his delight over increased relations between Iran and Pakistan and added both the countries should focus on enhanced cooperation in economic, culture and other fields. Kharrazi arrived here on a one-day visit as part of his four-nation tour that included China, India and Japan, besides Pakistan.

The minister laid stress on exploiting the potentials in various sectors for mutual advantage of Iran and Pakistan. Reciprocating to Kasuri`s observations, Kharrazi stated, "Tehran attaches great importance to its relations with Islamabad and both the countries should take steps to help establish peace in the region".

The Iranian minister maintained that it was imperative for all the neighbouring countries to extend help to Afghanistan government and join hands in efforts aimed at restoration of peace and security in the war-torn country.

"The neighbouring countries should give top priority to contribute to peace and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan," the minister emphasized.

Kharrazi was of the view that nuclear arms race would not help the efforts for sustainable peace instead add to deadly weapons stockpile.

"On this very basis, Iran has already proposed denuclearization of the Middle East," the minister pointed out.

Iran`s top diplomat said that the media and related organizations should accord due priority to promotion of Iran-Pakistan relations, safeguarding their interests.