"All of us, including our Iranian hosts, are deeply concerned about the tragic situation in Syria today. We must all do our best to help reduce suffering ... and put an end to the nightmare of Syrian people," former UN chief and Syria envoy Kofi Annan said after a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

Annan said the purpose of the delegation’s visit is to meet and exchange views with Iranian leaders about the region’s problems.

“We are looking forward to hear the Iranian leaders’ recommendations for easing tensions at the regional and international levels.”

The delegation also stated that it had constructive meetings with the Islamic Republic’s officials.

Annan arrived in Iran on Sunday with former Finnish president Martti Ahtisaari, South African Nobel Peace Laureate Desmond Tutu and Mexican ex-president Ernesto Zedillo.

The Elders group was formed in 2007 and is made up of 12 former global leaders who "promote peace, justice and human rights," according to its website.

In a statement released on Saturday the Elders, referring to the recent Geneva talks between Iran and six world powers, hailed "recent positive developments as a historic and strategic opportunity to end decades of animosity between Iran and the international community."

RA/NJF