India's ties with Iran is independent: Pranab

Tehran, Feb 7: India today stated that the relationship with Iran is independent of any third country's influence and reiterated that Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and negotiation.

In an oblique reference to the US veiled threat that countries should limit their business with Iran specially in the energy sector as part of sanctions against Iran, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said at a press conference, ''The IAEA should play a central role in resolving the outstanding issues. A peaceful negotiated solution would be facilitated by enhanced cooperation between India and the IAEA and a demonstration of restraint and flexibility by all sides.'' Mr Mukherjee's statement was made at a joint press interaction along with Iran's foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki.

The Indian minister on his first visit to the region after becoming the External Affairs Minister said the nuclear issue should be resolved peacfully through dialogue and negotiations.

Mr Mukherjee will meet President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad and National Security Advisor Ali Larijani later in the day and would address a press conference in the aircraft en route to New Delhi.

The Indian minister said IAEA should play a central role in resolving the issues. Iran should peacefully negotiate.

Iran's stability is also required for peace in the gulf region. ''Iran is a factor for stability in the region'' he said.

Mr Mottaki emphasised that Iran's nuclear activity is for peaceful purpose and surveillance by the IAEA in respect of the ''natural rights of our country'' is welcome. If there is any irregular activity, its for the IAEA to see, he said.

Mr Mottaki added that Iran's officials will visit France, Monaco and Munich for talks on nuclear activities soon.

Mr Mukherjee said India shares ''excellent bilateral relationship with Iran''. He said in his talks with Mr Mottaki, he emphasised on early conclusion of signing investment protection agreement and double taxation agreement.

He said the bilateral ties now at 15 million dollars are growing and the private companies of both the countries are at the helm of affairs.''They (business) are driving bilateral commercial relationship'', Mr Mukherjee said.

The Iranian minister said the dialogue fructified after constant consultation and was ''fruitful'.

He also said the bilateral trade could be extended as it would benefit India's growing economy and its high GDP growth at 8 per cent. ''India's GDP growth needs stabilised energy supply,'' the Minister said.

''Iran could supply energy to India and Asian countries,'' he added.

UNI