Syria security, independence highly important: Iran VP
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The first Iranian Vice President underlines the importance of bilateral ties with Syria as the two countries struggle against unilateral sanctions.
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Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber with Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad
Iran largely values the solidarity, independence, and security of Syria, Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber said Wednesday.
Speaking with visiting Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad, Mokhber said Tehran always had an approach of respect toward Syria's national integrity, noting that the fight against terrorism should not hurt that prospect.
This statement comes after Turkey, under the pretext of fighting terrorists in Syria, said it would launch an offensive in the country's north. "The Turkish army intends to carry out anti-terror military operations at the Turkish state borders," Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in late May. "The decision on these operations will be taken soon," he added.
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Wednesday voiced concern over Turkey's military intervention in Syria, noting that Tehran was conducting negotiations on this issue.
The Vice President then called for the development of all-out cooperation between Tehran and Damascus, stressing the necessity of removing any obstacles to the bilateral economic ties as the Islamic Republic "is determined to develop its cooperation with Syria in all areas."
Tehran-Damascus economic relations have not been fostered in accordance with the two sides' political ties, therefore expanding banking cooperation and facilitating financial exchange is necessary, Mokhber underlined.
On the other hand, Mekdad noted that if it were not for Iran's support, the situation in Syria and the region would be completely different, praising Tehran's role in helping Damascus fight terrorism.
The Syrian Foreign Minister went on to criticize "those who take such unilateral and unfair measures against nations are war criminals, as their actions are against humanity," meaning the United States and the various western countries that imposed sanctions on both Iran and his country.
Mekdad concluded by saying that with support from Iran, Syria will conquer the US occupation.
