Tehran, Jan 12 (IANS): Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif Monday appreciated Russia's role in the nuclear negotiations with world powers and called for a more active role by Moscow as an important party in accelerating access to a comprehensive solution.

Zarif made the remarks in a meeting here with visiting Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, state-run IRNA reported.

In the meeting, Zarif -- by referring to high capacities and various abilities of both countries -- also underlined the necessity of deepening and expanding mutual ties.

Increasing political consultations and exchanging views on international and regional development were among other issues emphasised by Zarif.

Ryabkov, for his part, underlined the responsible role of Moscow in nuclear talks between Iran and the P5 1 group -- Russia, the US, China, France, Britain plus Germany -- and added that close and friendly relations between Moscow and Tehran necessitate using capacities helping access to a faster solution for Iran's nuclear program.

He also underlined Russia's readiness for more effective international and regional cooperation with Iran.