“The Islamic Republic of Iran … condemns terrorist [activities] and foreign intervention in Syria,” said the Iranian President during a meeting with Syrian Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi in Tehran on Sunday.

Rohani added that continued unrest in Syria was unfortunate and expressed hope that lasting peace and stability would return to the Arab country.

The Syrian premier, for his part, congratulated Rohani on his election as Iran’s new president, delivering a written message from President Bashar al-Assad to his Iranian counterpart.

Halqi also presented a report on the developments in Syria, expressing gratitude to the Iranian nation and government for their support and assistance towards resolving the matter.

Highlighting friendly relations between the two countries, the Syrian prime minister called for stronger Tehran-Damascus ties in all areas.

Syria has been gripped by deadly unrest since 2011. Western powers and their regional allies, including the Israeli regime, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, continue to support militant groups such al-Qaeda-linked terrorists in the Arab country.

Halqi took part in the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new president in Tehran later on Sunday, which was attended by Iranian officials as well as foreign dignitaries.

On Saturday, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei formally endorsed Rohani for a four-year term in office.

HH/HH