Lebanon, epitome of resistance in world: Iran official

Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Saeed Jalili has hailed Lebanon as an illustration of resistance in the region and the world.

“We respect Lebanon because of its resistance and the prominent role it plays with regards to the region’s security and stability,” Jalili said upon arrival in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, on Monday.

“The Islamic Awakening has created a great opportunity and it is only natural that the enemies of peace and stability in the region and the enemies of the Islamic Ummah are not pleased with this situation,” Jalili added.

The Iranian official urged the regional nations to remain vigilant and said, “A good opportunity has been created for the Muslim world.”

“Therefore, the regional governments and countries should consult with one another in order to make the utmost use of these opportunities in favor of Islamic Ummah and the peace of the people in the region.”

Jalili arrived in Lebanon on Monday to discuss regional developments, the Syrian unrest in particular, with senior Lebanese officials. He was welcomed by Lebanese Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour and Tehran’s Ambassador to Lebanon Ghazanfar Roknabadi.

During his visit, the top Iranian official is set to hold talks with Lebanese President Michel Suleiman, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Prime Minister Najib Mikati, and Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour on the latest regional developments.