The United Nation’s special envoy for Syria said the world body is looking for a new political solution to help settle the crisis in Syria in a peaceful and democratic manner, noting the Islamic Republic can play a “very constructive and helpful role.”
Staffan de Mistura made the remarks in a meeting with Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in Tehran on Tuesday, in which the two sides discussed the latest developments in Syria and exchanged views on how to proceed with a political process in the war-ravaged Arab country, ISNA reported.
The Iranian minister urged a political approach to address the situation in Syria, saying backing terrorism by some countries is the main cause of continued tensions and acts of extremism in the region, which have given rise to “instability and human catastrophe” in the crisis-hit Middle East states.
Since March 2011, Syria has been grappling with a militancy backed by foreign countries including the United States and its regional allies. The so-called Islamic State militant group is currently controlling parts of the country, mostly in the east. More than 230,000 people have been killed in the four-year conflict that has created 4 million refugees.
Elsewhere, Zarif met Switzerland’s State Secretary of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Yves Rossier, who was on an official visit to Tehran, ISNA reported on Wednesday.
The foreign minister discussed bilateral, regional and international issues with the Swiss diplomat.
Zarif noted that Iran has played a key role in helping fight terrorism and extremism in the region.
He called for expansion of ties with the European country, especially in economic fields.
Rossier underscored the significance of the recent nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers and urged increased collaboration with Tehran on bilateral relations as well as regional and international affairs.
