TEHRAN (FNA)- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif warned of the dangers of extremism and sectarianism in the region, and called for collective efforts by the regional states to control the two phenomena.

"We hope that the internal differences, sectarianism and extremism which are the major dangers in the region will be settled with the help of the regional states," Zarif said after a meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut on Wednesday.

"We believe that the method of talks and cooperation as well as regional interests should be placed under the focus of attention," he added.

Zarif expressed the hope that the situation in the region and Lebanon would move towards stability and tranquility, and said, "The Islamic Republic has always stood beside the Lebanese and regional nations and is a back up force for them to help establish stability" in various regional countries.

Iran has intensified efforts to fight against extremism and terrorism in the region and the world and has helped the regional states, specially Iraq, Lebanon and Syria, in this regard.

Earlier this month, Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni appreciated Iran's serious fight against terrorism and extremism, and said Europe has pinned hope on Tehran's campaign.

"Iran's fight against extremism which threatens peace and stability is a great hope for us (the Europeans)," Gentiloni told Iran's state TV.

He said Iran's role in establishing stability in the region is of crucial importance to Europe, and said, "The vital importance of this issue is the result of common interests in fighting the ISIL and the possibility for defeating the terrorist group on one hand, and special issues like Syria and Lebanon on the other hand."

By Fars News Agency