TEHRAN (FNA)- Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent an important message to his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani on regional developments and bilateral ties, a spokesman said on Monday.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hossein Jaberi Ansari broke the news in his weekly press conference today.

He referred to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu's surprise visit to Tehran on Sunday, and said, "A special message was communicated from Putin to Rouhani on regional developments and bilateral matters."

Highlighting the strategic relations between Tehran and Moscow and the existence of common grounds for further expansion of ties in economy, trade and defense, he said, "There are some ongoing consultations in defense areas, including the new generation of S-300 (missile defense shield), which will be announced in due time."

At the meeting with President Rouhani on Sunday, Shoigu presented a report on the latest developments concerning regional stability and ongoing talks on cessation of hostilities in Syria.

President Rouhani, for his part, detailed the Islamic Republic’s stance on the situation in Syria and potential resolution of the conflict in the Arab country.

The crisis in Syria can only be solved through political negotiations and respect for the rights of the country’s government and people, who are those taking the final decision regarding its future, he said.

Shoigu's visit to Tehran was made almost one week after his Iranian counterpart Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan traveled to Moscow.

In a meeting with Dehqan last Tuesday, Shoigu said Tehran and Moscow must upgrade defense and security cooperation, as they are dealing with common threats such as terrorism and extremism.

"The two neighbours face common threats and challenges, so they have to adopt similar policies," he said.

He underlined the importance of meetings and consultations between the Iranian and Russian officials to further strengthen ties, and expressed the hope that General Dehqan's visit would help open a new chapter in defense ties.

Noting that Russia seeks long-term and strategic relations with Tehran, Shoigu said, "We enjoy high-level relations and we are ready to develop cooperation to help resolve regional crises diplomatically."

By Fars News Agency