The Secretary-General BAN Ki-moon today met with the President of Iran, Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. They discussed developments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Middle East.

The Secretary-General commended Iran for its constructive role in counter narcotics enforcement activities. He thanked Iran for continuing to host a large number of Afghan and Iraqi refugees and encouraged Iran to continue supporting their welfare.

He hoped that Iran will engage constructively in negotiations with the E3+3 allowing a mutually acceptable agreement in conformity with relevant Security Council resolutions.

The Secretary-General also stressed the importance of respecting fundamental civil and political rights.