Head of Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission called on Japan to support Iran's bid for non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.

Japan's Kyodo news agency quoted Alaeddin Boroujerdi as saying that Iran as a UN member is entitled to be elected as a non-permanent member of the 15-nation council.

"Japan is expected to extend support to Iran in this respect," he said.

Boroujerdi further said that given Japan's political and economic influence, Iran will also support Tokyo's bid for permanent seat in the UNSC, which will help strengthen Asia's say in the 15-member body.

UNSC comprises of five permanent members with veto rights as well as 10 non-permanent members, which are elected for a two-year term.

Iran and Japan from Asia will compete for a non-permanent seat in the current month.

Japan will take part in the ballot in place of Mongolia which has withdrawn in favor of Japan.

Kyodo further quoted Boroujerdi as saying that negotiations between Iran and 5+1 countries on uranium enrichment program has stalled but they are continuing talks via telephone.

Stating that Iran maintains that talks have not stopped, Boroujerdi said that there has been no change in Iran's nuclear policy.

Source: Iran, 13 October 2008