TEHRAN – Iranian Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani has said that some countries seek to “manage” terrorists instead of “countering” them.

Larijani made the remarks during a meeting with Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias in Tehran on Monday.
A series of coordinated terrorist attacks in Paris on November 13, which left 130 dead, rattled Europe. After the attacks French President François Hollande started a shuttle diplomacy to prompt countries including China to take action against terrorist groups including Daesh.

Larijani said, “Many of the European countries have become aware of the danger of terrorism and embarked on taking actions, but all should be aware of this threat and do not exacerbate the regional volatile situation by financial and military supports for the terrorist groups.”

Larijani expressed hope that all countries would take steps in establishing peace and stability in the Middle East.

The top lawmaker praised close ties between Iran and Greece and called for expansion of economic cooperation.

For his part, the Greek foreign minister said Athens seeks closer ties with Iran in various political and economic areas.

Kotzias also described sanctions against Iran as “unfair”, saying it runs contrary to the European Union’s policy.

He expressed hope that the sanctions would be removed soon.

Commenting on the downing of a Russian warplane by Turkey, he said that such acts will further complicate the situation in the Middle East region.

The Greek foreign minister arrived in Tehran on Sunday on the head of an economic and political delegation.

NA/PA