UN chief encourages Iran to contribute to political settlement of regional crises

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday met here with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, while encouraging Iran to contribute to a political settlement of regional crises.

"The Secretary-General encouraged Iran to contribute to a political settlement of the crises in the region, particularly with regard to Syria and Yemen," said the readout of their meeting released by Ban's spokesperson.

While discussing international efforts to counter terrorism, the two called on the international community and particularly the countries of the region, to help Iraq fight terrorism and re-establish stability.

While congratulating Rouhani on the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran nuclear issue, Ban said he hopes that the deal will be implemented fully and in a timely manner by all parties.

On the tragic stampede in Mecca on Thursday, Ban expressed deep condolences to President Rouhani over the death of more than 100 Iranian pilgrims.

A UN summit on sustainable development, which sees the gathering of over 150 world leaders, has taken place at the UN headquarters in New York City from Sept. 25-27. The summit adopted on Friday a development agenda that contains 17 sustainable development goals to guide the world development over the next 15 years.

Ban also urged Iran to support the Sustainable Development Goals and submit its national targets on climate change as soon as possible. Enditem