Zarif: US thinking up excuses to intervene in Syria

Tehran, April 10, IRNA – US Administration is apparently looking for excuses to intervene in Syria, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters upon arrival in Brazil on Tuesday. Zarif, who is in Brazil to explore new ways to expand bilateral ties with the Latin American nation, condemned the chemical attacks in Syria, saying Iran has a very clear stance regarding the chemical weapons and their use. Iran denounces the use of chemical weapons by or against any parties, he said. Referring to the fact that the Zionist regime of Israel and the US had entered the battle field several times in the past to give heart to the terrorists, Zarif reiterated that the US-backed terrorists in Syria are not in good condition. They are facing defeats on a daily basis, he said. The Zionist regime’s recent attack is not anything new since whenever terrorists are defeated, Israel launches an operation, the Iranian foreign minister added. Based on authentic information, US is transporting Daesh (ISIS) terrorist elements to other areas to capitalize on its dangerous assets in other places as well, Zarif said. He went on to say that adopting such policies will bring about hazardous consequences for the peace and security in the region and the whole world. Commenting on his recent visit to Senegal, Zarif said a fruitful economic meeting was held between Iranian and Senegalese officials in the African country's private and technology sectors, including the knowledge-based companies. An agreement was also signed by between Iranian and Senegalese firms to build houses in the country, he said. Zarif, meanwhile, referred to his meeting with President of Senegal Macky Sall, and the orders issued by him aimed at facilitating Iranian entrepreneurs’ trip to Senegal and activities f the Iranian car manufacturer Iran Khoro in the country. Elaborating on the importance of his tour to Brazil, he said Brazil is one of the most important economies in the world and in Latin America. Iran maintains extensive relations with Brazil, he said. Iran and Brazil can have more cooperation in oil and natural gas sectors. 1378/IRNA