Some six months ago, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt closed their land, air and maritime borders with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism

Iran's ambassador to Qatar Mohammad Ali Sobhaninia told the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) that negotiation is the best solution for the rift.

Iran has always been calling on the two sides for negotiation since the early days of the crisis.

'Escalation is not in favor of any party, rather it will cause instability and insecurity in the strategic region, especially in an era that the region is experiencing a hard, sensitive situation and requires understaning, integrity and tranquility,' he said.

Praising Iran-Qatar relations, Sobhaninia said, 'Due to the lots of commonalities, the two countries' relations have been old, historical and based on fraternity, amity, good-neighborliness, and mutual respect throughout the history.'

Iran's ambassador described Tehran-Doha relations as firm and flourishing, and said that these are the indicaitons of the two countries' will and resolve for taking steps to boost relations.

The Iranian diplomat also extended his congratulations on Qatar's National Day (December 18).

Qatar declared independence from Britain in 1971.

IRNA