Minister Moallem Held Meetings in New York

NEW YORK, (ST)_  Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid al-Moallem met Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 73).

Al-Moallem reviewed the latest developments in Syria regarding counter-terrorism and the Idleb agreement, affirming that Syria is continuing to pursue a political solution that is devised and led by Syrians without foreign interference and that is based on respecting the country’s independence, sovereignty, and unity.

He also underlined the efforts of the Syrian government to secure the return of people displaced due to terrorism, noting that thousands have already returned from neighboring countries.

For her part, Swaraj congratulated Syria on its success in fighting terrorism, affirming that India will continue supporting Syria in this field and in finding a political solution.

She also said she will visit Syria at a date to be set by both sides soon in order to enhance bilateral relations and set up a framework for cooperation and coordination.

Earlier, Minister al-Moallem met Algerian Foreign Minister Abdelkader Messahel and Sudanese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Al Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed on the sidelines of 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 73).

According to SANA, Minister al-Moallem briefed the two ministers on the latest developments of the situation in Syria regarding counterterrorism efforts and the agreement on Idleb.

The talks also dealt with the issues of common concern , with stress laid on the need for continuing consultation and coordination in the meetings held at international organizations to serve the interests of Syria, Algeria and Sudan.

For their part, the Sudanese and Algerian ministers congratulated the leadership and people in Syria over the victories achieved by the Syrian Army and people in countering terrorism and restoring safety and stability to different areas after defeating terrorist groups positioned there.

They also affirmed their countries’ standing by Syria in defending its rights, unity and territorial integrity , as well as eradicating terrorism and exerting pressure on the backers of terrorism in order to implement  UN resolutions related to combating terrorism.

The Sudanese Foreign Minister reiterated the importance of bolstering relations between Syria and Sudan at all levels.

Al-Moallem also met Foreign Minister of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides who expressed the readiness of Cyprus Companies to contribute in the reconstruction process in Syria

M.A.