‘Inter-Syrian dialogue helps security prevail in Syria: Iran official

Iran’s Parliament (Majlis) Speaker Ali Larijani says dialogue among parties involved in the almost four-year-long Syria’s conflict will help the establishment of security and calm in the militancy-stricken Arab country.

During a meeting with Syrian Prime Minister Wael Nader al-Halqi in Tehran on Wednesday, Larijani reiterated Iran’s unwavering support for the Syrian nation and government, underlining that the Islamic Republic, while stressing the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of Syria, welcomes any initiative aimed at the establishment of stability and peace in the country.

The Iranian legislator further hailed the Syrian government and nation’s resistance against plots being devised by terrorists and their supports, expressing optimism about Syria’s future.

“Western countries have confessed to their failure to topple the Syrian government, and are now looking for a political solution to withdraw the Syrian conflict in a face-saving manner,” Larijani pointed out.

The Syrian premier, for his part, praised Tehran’s support for the Syrian government and nation, stating that Syria relies on such support in the fight against terrorist groups.

Halqi also emphasized that the Damascus government welcomes any talks with opposition groups or initiative that does not harm the interests of the Syrian nation.

Syria has been grappling with a deadly conflict since March 2011. Western powers and their regional allies — especially Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey — are the main supporters of the militants operating inside Syria.

More than 200,000 people have died so far in the conflict in Syria, according to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Zeid al-Hussein.