Iranian FM, Lebanese President Discuss Closer Ties

In the meeting held in Beirut on Monday, Zarif and Aoun discussed political, trade and economic cooperation between Iran and Lebanon and the readiness of Iranian companies to participate in the Arab country's projects.

The two sides also exchanged views about regional issues, especially Syria and its displaced people taking refuge in Lebanon.

Heading a high-ranking delegation, Zarif arrived in Lebanon on Sunday at the official invitation of the Arab country’s officials.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Beirut, Zarif congratulated Lebanon on the formation of the new government and said, “We emphasize our support for the Lebanese government.”

The Iranian top diplomat’s visit came as Lebanon recently formed a new national unity government, ending nearly nine months of political wrangling.

Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri apologized to the people of Lebanon for the time it had taken to form the government and said that bold moves were needed without delay to address chronic problems facing the heavily indebted state.

The government of Hariri, who has Western backing, includes most parties, including Hezbollah, which emerged stronger from the parliamentary election last May thanks to gains by its allies. Hezbollah chose the new health minister.

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