Syria, Iran to Boost Tourist, Religious Ties
DAMASCUS, (ST)-Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi and Head of Iran’s Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization Saeed Ohadi on Monday discussed ways of reactivating and boosting religious, tourist and social ties between Syria and Iran.
Talks focused on facilitating Iranian pilgims’ visits to holy places in Syria and on exchanging religious and tourist missions.
Al-Halqi stressed that the Iranian visitors in Syria enjoy the care and amity of the Syrian people. He pointed out that Syria has been the cradle of civilizations and heavenly religions and a clear example of religious coexistance.
He stressed the necessity of Islamic countries’ contribution to disseminating the mentality of moderate Islam and to openness towards all heavenly religions. He called on Islamic countries to fortify their societies against destructive cultural invasion which is a plague that threatens the security and stability of Islamic societies and the entire world.
The Premier talked about the repurcussions of the economic war and siege against the Syrian people, asserting the steadfastness of the Syrian army and people in the confrontation of the terrorist organizations.
He highly appreciated the Iranian people’s support for the Syrians to alleviate their suffering and enahnce their steadfastness.
On his part, Ohadi said he was proud of the distinguished relations between Syria and Iran in all domains, affirming that “the great Syrian people achieve daily victories over terrorism and over the criminal takfiri thinking which threatens the stability and security of the region.”
The meeting was attended by Tourism Minister Bisher Yazigi and the Iranian Ambassador in Damascus Mohammad Riza Shibani.
Hamda Mustafa