Iran says ready to expand ties with Cuba

TEHRAN, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Saturday that Iran is ready to boost ties with Cuba, state TV reported.

Iran and Cuba are two revolutionary countries that enjoy very good relations, Rouhani said, adding that the Islamic Republic "was determined to develop relations with the Cuban government and will follow this path."

He pointed to the capacities of boosting Tehran-Havana ties in different economic fields, particularly in the science and energy sector.

He also slammed U.S. sanctions as an inappropriate and worn-out tool, saying that Iran is "opposed to the imposition of oppressive sanctions against independent nations, including Cuba."

Rouhani made the remarks on Saturday while receiving the credentials of Cuban ambassador to Tehran Alexis Bandrich Vega.

For his part, the Cuban ambassador said that Havana was determined to increase its economic and political relations with Tehran.

Cuba believes that the enhancement of ties with Iran in all areas is the best way to counter unfair sanctions against the two countries at a time when the United States is using pressure to impose its own views on the world, Vega pointed out.

He also praised what he called Iran's role in resorting stability and security to the region. Enditem