TEHRAN (Tasnim) � The Muslim world needs to strengthen itself with scientific and technological advances, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stressed, calling for mutual cooperation between Iran and Malaysia in science and technology in order for both to attain development goals with combined action.

Speaking at a meeting with Malaysian scholars and media and cultural figures, held in Kuala Lumpur on Friday night, President Rouhani said Iran and Malaysia, which have had good cooperation in scientific and technological fields, should provide one another with their advances in these areas.

He also called for efforts to ensure unity and cohesion in the Islamic world, warning against hostile moves aimed at inciting discord among Muslims.

The president then referred to the principles of Iran�s regional foreign policy, saying they include combatting Takfiri terrorism, contribution to peace, ceasefire and humanitarian aid, rejection of breaking up countries or any change in the borders, as well as respect for the vote of people and their right to rule their own countries.

Iran has always called for concerted action in the fight against terrorism, particularly via cooperation among Muslim nations.

During his trip to Kuala Lumpur, President Rouhani also stressed the need for collaboration between Iran and Malaysia, as two major Islamic nations with moderate policies, in combatting extremism.

Heading a political and economic delegation, President Rouhani embarked on a tour of Southeast Asia on Wednesday that first took him to Vietnam.

He will later fly to Thailand to attend the 2nd Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit.

By Tasnim News Agency