Iran’s role in Syria ‘highly positive’: EP chief

TEHRAN, Nov. 08 (MNA) – EP President Martin Schulz referring to his extensive talks with Iranian Parliament speaker on Syrian situation hailed Iran’s constructive role in regional developments. President of the EU Parliament Martin Schulz who arrived in the Iranian capital on Saturday, attended a joint press conference with Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani following their bilateral meeting to promote ties between Iran and the European Union. Noting that Iran and EU relations are now in a determining stage, Schulz added, “we are now in the stage of implementing the JCPOA; once completed, doors to economic cooperation with Iran and positive developments will open.” He deemed regional stability one of the mutual points of interest between Iran and the EU, adding “Iran plays a highly positive role in the Syrian situation. We are grateful for Mr. Larijani's constructive interactions in this regard.” The senior European official commended Iran’s participation in Syria peace talks held in Vienna, expressing hope that the next stages of talks would lead toward a solution to Syrian crisis. “I have told my counterpart Mr. Larijani my opinion that there is no long-term future for Bashar al-Assad in Syria, but there exists a short-term future for him at present and we must consider these two factors together,” said Schulz. “Every nation is entitled to the right to choose its own future. This is not something we can overlook and dismiss. It is necessary to hold fair and free elections so that the Syrian people can choose their own destiny.” The EP chief said that the European Union, Iran, Russia, US and Saudi Arabia can facilitate the peace process in Syria, calling for a national dialogue that could bring together all Syrian ethnic groups with their safety guaranteed.