Iran's new president terms Syria as 'brother' country

TEHRAN - New Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Sunday Iran has considered the Syrian nation as its "friend and brother" and will regard the same, semi-official Fars news agency reported.

He made the remarks here in a meeting with Syrian Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi who has travelled to Tehran for Rouhani's swearing-in.

The Islamic republic condemns foreign intervention and terrorists' involvements in the Syrian conflict, said the report.

For his part, al-Halqi congratulated Rouhani on his presidential victory and delivered the written message of the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to Rouhani.

The Syrian prime minister provided an account of new developments in his country and expressed gratitude for Iran's support and assistance to the Arab state.

Both sides wish to expand bilateral ties in different sectors.