Bangkok, Oct 10, IRNA – Visiting Iranian President Hassan Rouhani here on Monday called for expansion of relations with Sri Lanka.

President Rouhani made the remarks in a meeting with his Sri Lankan counterpart Maithripala Sirisena on the sidelines of the second Summit of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) that started work today.

President Rouhani also voiced Iranian companies' willingness to cooperate in development projects in Sri Lanka.

Commenting on Iran-Sri Lanka cordial relations, he added there is no hindrance to enhance mutual relations.

Commenting on Iran-Sri Lanka common positions in regional and international developments, President Rouhani added the two countries have always safeguarded their mutual stance in global communities.

He added the situation after Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is a good opportunity for developing ties with Sri Lanka, the economic relations in particular.

Citing violence and extremism as a regional dilemma, he added violence and extremism are the main factor for fanning the flames of tension in many societies.

Iranian president also reiterated that all ethnic groups, communities and followers of different divine religions should be encouraged to negotiate peacefully with each other.

Sirisena, for his part, said Sri Lanka is fully determined to expand close relations in political, economic, cultural and scientific arenas with Iran.

He added Sri Lanka attaches great importance for expansion of mutual relations with Iran.

Touching upon Colombo-Tehran cordial relations, Sirisena added Iran plays a pivotal role in implementing development projects in Sri Lanka.

Praising Iran's role to establish peace and tranquility in Sri Lanka, he added the Islamic Republic has proven that it has a true understanding about Sri Lanka and regional problems.

Sri Lankan president also voiced satisfaction over his upcoming visit to Tehran in near future.

By IRNA