Political transition in Syria through govt. change is wishful thinking: Iran

TEHRAN,July 30(MNA) – Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said it is wishful thinking that political transition in Syria will take place through the change of the government. Salehi made the remarks during a joint press conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem in Tehran on Sunday. Salehi stated, “There are more than enough problems in the region. It is not appropriate that we compound these problems under the false assumption that if a (political) vacuum is created in Syria and the Syrian government changes, it will easily be replaced by another government. This is wishful thinking and an illusion. We have to take into consideration the conditions that Syria is experiencing and its internal situation.” He added, “We do not deny this fact that the Syrian people, like other nations, have the right to enjoy all civil rights in a free country, but it should be noted that a plot has been hatched against Syria, which is clearly manifested in the stance and views of the Zionist regime against Syria. “The Zionist regime is the initiator of all plots (to) bring down the Syrian government and create chaos in Syria.” Salehi also said, “It is surprising that some are seeking reasons for Syria developments and express some views and believe that these (incidents) were merely caused by a number of public demands.” He added, “We acknowledge that some Syrian people may have initiated a movement toward change, and the Syrian president and government have announced readiness to (fulfill) these demands and have met (some). A new constitution was adopted, and the issues of the multiplicity of parties and parliamentary election were put on the agenda and were addressed. “Some may say that these measures were not taken under normal circumstances. But they should be told, ‘Give enough time (to the Syrian government) so that the Syrian government and president will be able to fulfill the promises they have made to the people.’ “We clearly see that this is a plot against Syria evilly hatched by a number of countries spearheaded by the Zionist regime. “If, God forbid, actions in the wrong direction continue, their consequences will affect everyone, and we cannot currently predict the scope of their repercussions precisely.”