“Despite the ups and downs, the historical ties between the two countries have been sustained”

Iran's Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has welcomed remarks by his Egyptian counterpart Nabil al-Arabi on promoting Tehran-Cairo ties.

In his first press conference as Egypt's foreign minister on Tuesday, al-Arabi said Cairo is ready to open "a new page with Iran." Al-Arabi said that the Egyptian government does not see Iran as an enemy state, noting that the two countries have historically had deep relations. He further stated that the establishment of diplomatic ties depends on the Iranian side.

Salehi commented on the remarks by saying “despite the ups and downs, the historical ties between the two countries have been sustained.” “The Egyptian people have turned a new page in the country's history by moving towards the realization of their justice-seeking demands,” IRNA quoted Salehi as saying on Wednesday.

“We hope to witness the expansion of relations between the Iranian and Egyptian nations … in the emerging new era.”

The Iranian foreign minister added that good relations between the two countries could help the region's stability, security and development.