The head of the Center for Strategic Research of the Expediency Council said Iran is trying to promote unity among Muslims without interfering in the internal affairs of Islamic countries.
Ali Akbar Velayati said, "Iran does its upmost to help tackle regional problems and foster unity among Muslims without interfering in their internal affairs," Fars news agency reported on Friday.
In response to a question on the scope and depth of Iran's influence in the region, Velayati said, "Influence does not necessarily mean dominance, particularly when we talk about Iran that has never tried to dictate to any independent state. We don't intervene in the internal affairs of other countries on the basis of our Constitution."
He pointed out that the region is faced with numerous challenges which should be addressed through collective efforts of regional countries.
He said Iran due to its excellent ties with the people and governments of most regional countries has the capacity to help find solutions to the challenges facing the region. The senior advisor to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution said this position has obliged us to feel responsibility toward regional developments, noting, "This does not mean we seek dominance over other states, no country in the world can gain control of another country by dispatching forces."
Elsewhere, he said Iran has constantly backed Iraq's national sovereignty and territorial integrity and made efforts to duly respond to their calls for help.
He referred to the crisis in Syria and said, "We have also supported the nation and the legitimate government of Syria and believe that it is the Syrian nation that should find solutions to their challenges, and no other foreign country has the right to determine the situation in the country."
He said the situation in Yemen is different, adding, "We made no intervention there, but the widespread corruption in the government sparked the nation's uprising, but unfortunately some foreign countries try to make decisions on behalf of (the Yemeni people)."
He continued, "Ultimately, the Yemeni people should determine their future, free from foreigners' interventions that claim to be their custodians."
