Iran, Russia Underscore Support for Stability in Syria

TEHRAN (FNA)- Tehran's Ambassador to Moscow Seyed Reza Sajjadi and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov underlined the two countries' support for tranquility and stability in Syria.
During the meeting in Moscow, the two officials discussed the latest developments in the Middle-East, Syria in particular.

The two sides called for the rapid solution of problems in Syria and establishment of stability in the country, and underlined the necessity for continued consultations between Iran and Russia about developments in the Middle-East.

They also underscored both countries' interest in the establishment of peace, security and stability in the region.

Syria has been entangled in a series of riots after the occurrence of popular uprisings in the other Arab countries. Syrian President Bashar Assad has appeared in public several times since the riots began and made general promises of reform.

In a speech at Damascus University in June, the Syrian president said a national dialogue would start soon and he was forming a committee to study constitutional amendments, including one that would open the way to forming political parties other than the ruling Baath Party.

He acknowledged demands for reform were legitimate, but he cautioned once more that "saboteurs" were exploiting the movement.

Also in June, tens of thousands of the Syrian government's supporters converged on squares in several major cities. "The people want Bashar Assad!" they shouted, releasing black, white and red balloons - colors of the Syrian flag.

The fact that tens of thousands of people were on the streets was a reminder that Assad enjoys a large public support.