Italian FM: Italy Backs Iran’s Nuclear Program

Italy has given its full support to Iran's peaceful nuclear program as the two countries vow to boost cooperation on regional and international issues as well as culture.

"We recognize the right of all countries, including Iran, to peaceful nuclear energy," Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini said on Tuesday in Rome, Mehr news agency reported.

During a meeting with Iran's Vice President Hamid Baqaie, the Italian top diplomat further reiterated his country's support for transparent, honest, and constructive talks with the Islamic Republic.

Frattini also called for an expansion of practical cooperation between the two countries on international issues, including the war in Afghanistan.

"We believe that we can have good cooperation on fighting drug trafficking and countering terrorism and extremism in Afghanistan," the Italian minister said.

Frattini also pointed out that the two countries are moving closer to finalize a draft agreement for cooperation in war-ravaged Afghanistan which will afterwards be signed by Iranian and Italian foreign ministers.

Baqaie, for his part, hailed Italy's support for Iran's nuclear program and drew an analogy between Iran's nuclear activity and the nationalization of the country's oil industry.

The Iranian government is seeking to peacefully use nuclear energy -- at the nation's demand -- to meet medical and research needs and mounting energy demands, he said.