Iran will continue Efforts to Reach Political Solution to Syria Crisis- Spokesman

TEHRAN, (ST) _ Spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry  Abbas Araghchi,  stressed his country’s position in support of any initiative to resolve the crisis in Syria politically , especially  the Russian efforts, , pointing out that Iran will continue consultations and efforts with all countries to reach  a political and peaceful solution to the crisis in Syria , in the interest Syrian people.

“Iran is supporting the International Conference to be held in Geneva on Syria and hopes to convene it at due time  and with countries concerned with the Syrian issue”,  Araghchi said at a press conference yesterday , stressing Iran’s participation in the Conference if officially, invited  and that “the Syrian opposition” is facing problems because they have not yet agreed to participate in the conference and  how to elect representatives.

 Araghchi denied allegations on Iran sending  troops to Syria noting that  “the Syrian government and the Syrian Arab Army do not require such aids  but are capable of addressing the armed terrorist groups and defeat them.”

He added that  his country did not  expect the Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi to cut ties with Syria, pointing out that Egypt  should  have constructive presence in regional issues  through political dialogue, noting that Iran will continue its contacts with Egypt on Syria to reach a solution to the crisis there.

As for  the Iranian presidential elections Araghchi stressed that the vast Iranian participation in the presidential election demonstrated the popular support for the political system, as  a strong supporter of Iran.

On  the Iranian nuclear program for peaceful purposes,  Araghchi said that Iran is committed to the decisions and international conventions of  the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and will continue to cooperate with it, noting  “If the agency expects more commitments, a new framework for such cooperation is needed .”

 Araghchi pointed out that Iran refused statements proclaimed by Yukiya Amano, head of are not pertinent to his  technical role and experience, stressing that Iran has always expressed and showed good faith to continue talks with (IAEA). 

T. Fateh