Rome, Jan 28 (IANS/AKI): Italy is eager to maintain its "historic and profound" ties with Iran and views the landmark 2015 nuclear accord it signed with major powers a "pillar of security" for the entire Middle East, Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif on Monday.

During a "cordial" telephone conversation, Di Maio and Zarif said they shared "worry for the situation in the Gulf where the negative developments of the past weeks pose a great risk to international security," a Foreign Ministry statement said.

The two ministers agreed it essential that all sides refrain from "further acts that can increase tensions," the statement said.

"To this end, all actors must commit to constructive engagement through dialogue and political negotiation.

"The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action remains a pillar of security for the whole area, for which reason the European Union continues to ask for its complete implementation," it added.

The statement was referring to the agreement announced between Iran, Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the US in July 2015. Under the deal, Iran agreed to curb its uranium enrichment activities and allow in international inspectors in return for the lifting of crippling economic sanctions.