Iran Warns Against Bitter Consequences Of Syrian Security Vacuum

Tehran, Nov 20, IRNA – Foreign Minister Ali-Akbar Salehi on Monday warned against unpredictable and bitter consequences of continued insecurity in Syria, especially in the neighboring states. He criticized certain foreign governments for trying to create unrest in Syria. He made the remarks in a meeting with Yuhanna Ibrahim, metropolitan of the Syria Orthodox Archdiocese of Aleppo, on the sidelines of Conference on Syria National Dialogue. "It is only the Zionist regime which benefits from weak and insecure Syria." He said that Iranian principled stances are in favor of the legitimate and peaceful demands of the Syrian people, while opposing any foreign intervention in Syria. Salehi added that wise Syrian people should decide their own fate. "Any change and developments in the country should be in line with political reforms made by the Syrian people themselves." Salehi said that the Islamic Republic of Iran uses all its political capacity to help the Syrian nation and government overcome the current sensitive situation and restore stability and security. He outlined the peaceful co-existence of followers of different religions, including Christians in Iran enjoying full social and religious rights. Archbishop Ibrahim for his part thanked Iran for successfully hosting the Syrian Conference in Tehran and for Iranians' support for Syrian people. He said the Conference was highly significant for national reconciliation./end