Ban: Iran Has Rich Civilization, Cultural Achievements For Mankind

Tehran, Aug 30, IRNA – The UN Chief Ban Ki-moon said here Wednesday Iran has a rich civilization and has contributed great cultural achievements to entire mankind. Speaking to Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani here on Wednesday evening, Ban said, “My first official visit of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s parliament and meeting with the Majlis Speaker carries the message that the UN attaches special significance to democracy and democratic institutions, whose true symbol is the Majlis.' Touching on NAM Summit, hosted by Iran, Ban said, 'We congratulate Iran for hosting and chairing the movement. Being an influential country regionally and internationally, Iran should be taken into consideration for its presidency over NAM. 'Iran’s chairing of NAM, comprising 120 UN members, in the next three years should be taken as a valuable opportunity for settlement of regional and international tensions.' He added, “The UN will have broad consultation and cooperation with NAM during Iran’s chairmanship over the Movement.” Larijani for his part said that Ban’s presence in Iran to attend the NAM Summit would be a suitable opportunity for dialog on key regional and international issues. He added, 'The UN Chief’s presence in NAM Summit testifies the Movement’s special attention to the movement’s goals and aspirations.' Elsewhere in his remarks, Larijani said that Iran has always announced that Tehran supports democratic reforms in Syria and would use all its efforts to maintain tranquility and peace in the country. The Iranian Parliament Speaker added, “Unfortunately, certain big powers and regional countries do not allow Syria rulers to forge drastic reforms. 'The UN envoy for Syria affaires should try to shut down all military bases in the neighboring states which train terrorists and it should be accepted that mortar launcher can not build democracy there,” concluded Larijani./end