Iran-Syria Ministers Call For Promoting Cultural Ties

Tehran, May 29, IRNA – Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyyed Mohammad Hosseini and Syrian Minister of Culture Labaneh Mashouh underscored development of cultural ties. Referring to ancient ties between the two countries, Hosseini said that Tehran-Damascus ties were always ever increasing in post-Revolution era. ˈIran considers Syria as the front line of resistance to the Zionist regime and the West,ˈ he said, noting recent Israeli bombardment of Syrian territories indicated that the major enemy is Israel. Condemning Israeli barbaric attacks on Syria and interference of certain countries in the Arab stateˈs internal affairs, Hosseini added that Iran believes that all Syrian problems should be solved through dialogue without any pressure by the western states. Pointing to extensive cultural and artistic cooperation between Iran and Syria, he hoped that implementation of the deals signed earlier will be accelerated. He welcomed his Syrian counterpartˈs proposal to hold cultural week in Iran and said that Iran is ready to host such event. Mashouh, for his part, said that her country considers Iran a friend and brother and it appreciates its supports. Syria will never surrender to force and will continue to resist to the terrorists. Lauding Iranˈs cultural artistic activities, she called for using the countryˈs experience in the field. Mashould also urged establishment of a joint center for producing films./end