Zarif lauds constructive role of Berri

Beirut, Nov 8, IRNA – Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif on Tuesday lauded 'constructive' role of Lebanese Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri in formation of the new government of Lebanon in line with public interests. Zarif lauds constructive role of Berri Talking to reporters after a meeting with Berri on Tuesday, Zarif said that in the meeting he had congratulated Berri on his role in Lebanon, especially his constructive role in formation of the new Lebanese government while taking interests of the public into consideration. He told reporters, 'We hope that by efforts of different groups in Lebanon the new government will be formed upon national unity and consensus.' Zarif also expressed hope that regional problems could be settled through cooperation of all countries of the region. Concerning past stances of Saad Hariri, Zarif said, 'We discussed the issues with an outlook to future and we hope that by wisdom of Mr. Hariri and other Lebanese leaders, who could solve the problem of electing president, they will solve problems of Lebanon in the future either.' He stressed, 'We believe every success for Lebanon and Lebanese people would be success for Iranians as well and we hope this victory will be more consolidated by prompt formation of the new government.' In meeting between Zarif and Nabih Berri in Beirut, Iran's Ambassador to Lebanon Mohammad Fathali was present as well. Zarif arrived in Beirut on Monday afternoon and immediately met the President-elect Michel Aoun. General Michel Aoun was elected as the 13th Lebanon's president by absolute majority of votes cast by the parliament representatives last week. Zarif is to depart Lebanon for the east European states on Tuesday late afternoon. 1378/IRNA