Zarif Visiting North Africa

Mohammad Javad Zarif is to leave Tehran today for a three-nation tour of North Africa, according to the Foreign Ministry spokesman. In Algeria, Tunisia and Mauritania the foreign minister will discuss bilateral relations with his counterparts and the presidents of the three countries. "Holding consultations on regional developments, including those in the Syria conflict and the Persian Gulf issues, are among the goals of the two-day tour," Bahram Qasemi told ISNA, referring to the six-year war in Syria and the political crisis between Qatar and its Arab neighbors.  He said, "Regional developments highlight the need for closer harmony and solidarity among Muslim governments.  "The Islamic Republic believes Muslim nations should seek greater unity against ill-wishers and divisive [adversaries] powers."