MNA � Iran�s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif has hailed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a good example of collective action for a better future.

�ASEAN is a good and successful example for us and for our neighbors to learn a lesson that we can shape a better future for the people and the region through cooperation and commitment,� Zarif said on Wednesday while addressing the a ceremony on the 52nd anniversary of foundation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, held in Tehran

�I want to tell the friends and the neighbors that there is nothing to prevent our cooperation and partnership. Nothing could hinder our bonds for cooperation,� Foreign Ministry news service quoted Zarif as saying.

�We must know that the others would never protect us, and could never ensure our security either,� he added.

�ASEAN is a good and successful example for us and for our neighbours to learn a lesson that we can shape a better future for the people and the region through cooperation and commitment,� the top Iranian diplomat noted.