MOSCOW, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday, exchanging views on freedom of navigation and issues surrounding Iran's nuclear program, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The two sides continued a thorough exchange of views on the prospects for a full cessation of hostilities, stabilizing the military and political situation in the Middle East, the ministry said in a news release.

Russia reaffirmed its support for the ongoing mediation efforts and its readiness to fully support the political and diplomatic process to reach sustainable agreements aimed at establishing long-term peace in the region.

The ministers also discussed the passage of Russian vessels and cargo through the Strait of Hormuz, the ministry added. ■