Meeting with members of US think tanks on Sunday evening in New York, Iranian president touched upon different regional and international issues. Given the complicated situation in the Middle East, Rouhani asserted that policies and measures adopted by Western countries in the name of fighting terrorism has triggered more violence and insecurity in the region.
“However, amidst all the difficulties in the region, Iran’s nuclear deal was a promising success, reviving the idea of negotiation as the most beneficial solution for all,” he said.
Rouhani asserted that Iran is loyal to its commitments under JCPOA and believes its implementation as advantageous for all.
Noting the Syrian crisis, president said “it is one of the most crucial issues of the region today; the Syrian government is in need of reform indeed, yet the first step has to be eradication of terrorism in the country,” adding that “Iran is ready to cooperate with any country who prioritizes fight against terrorism in settling the crisis.”
“The fight against terrorism should not target the Syrian government who is a critical actor in settling the issue,” Rouhani underlined.
He also stressed the need for cooperation in this regard, saying that no country would be able to overcome the terrorism issue alone.
Asked on Iran’s role in the region and the issue of Iranophobia, President Rouhani stressed the peaceful nature of Iranian policies, asserting that, “Iran has never invaded any country; despite all propaganda against Iran, it is clear that it has never been and will not be a threat on regional and international stage.”
“Iran believes in territorial integrity and national unity of all countries and is ready to aid any country in this regard,” he stated.
Rouhani, considering Tehran-Riyadh relations, expressed regret over the unfriendly ties, and underlined the Saudi invasion of Yemen as isolating Saudi Arabia from Islamic world as well as Iran. “As members of the Islamic family, we have to accept and tolerate the differences and prepare the ground for further cooperation on different fields,” Iranian President reiterated.
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