Annan: talks with Iran, constructive

UN-Arab League envoy welcomes Iranian support for peace efforts after talks with foreign minister in Tehran.

Kofi Annan, the joint United Nations-Arab League envoy on Syria, has welcomed Iranian support for his efforts to secure peace in the country, telling Tehran that it can be part of the solution.

Annan was speaking in Tehran on Wednesday following talks with Ali Akbar Salehi, the Iranian foreign minister.

He stressed again the urgency of finding a way to end the killing and to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need, before getting all parties to the table.

“The political process must be Syrian-led and respect the aspirations of the Syrian people,” Annan said. “What is important is that governments in the region and beyond work with Syria to resolve the crisis.

“The geopolitical position of Syria is such that any miscalculation can have unimaginable consequences.”

Salehi said Iran supported Annan’s efforts but said President Bashar al-Assad’s government needed to be given time to implement promised reforms.

“We believe the people of Syria, like other countries, have the right to enjoy all the rights enjoyed by other world nations, such as freedom of political parties, freedom of elections, a constitution that encompasses all the wishes of a nation,” he said.

“At the same time, we have announced that we oppose interference in the affairs of all countries, including Syria.

“The government of Bashar al-Assad has promised change to meet the demands of the people… and in fact the opportunity must be given to the Syrian government.”

He said in the news conference that the Syrian government have assured him they will respect a ceasefire with opposition fighters, less than 24 hours before a deadline to suspend hostilities.

“I have received government assurances they will respect the ceasefire. If everyone respects it I think by 6 in the morning on Thursday we shall see a much improved situation on the ground,” Annan said.