TEHRAN – President Hassan Rouhani of Iran said on Saturday that Islamic countries should counter “Islamophobia” and “anti-Islamic” thoughts in the fasting month of Ramadan.

In separate messages to heads of state of Islamic countries on the start of the holy month of Ramadan, Rouhani said religious figures and leaders of Islamic countries have the responsibility to promote the Islamic sublime goals in this holy month.

“Create a world without violence and extremism through portraying Islam's moderate image and pinning hope on merciful God,” he said. 

Rouhani expressed hope that Muslims would make efforts in line with establishing peace and security and reducing crises in the world of Islam.

Iranian Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani also sent congratulation messages to his counterparts in Muslim countries.

“Parliamentary consultations are important steps to help realize peace in the world of Islam based on long lasting security, stability and prosperity of Islamic countries,” he noted.

The senior parliamentarian also said Islamic countries should adopt an “integrated strategy” to fight extremism and terrorism, suggesting that the Iranian parliament welcomes any “constructive interaction and dialogue” in this respect.

First Vice-President Es’haq Jahangiri also congratulated his counterparts in the Islamic countries on the start of Ramadan in separate messages.

He expressed hope that violence and terrorism would be eradicated by strengthening brotherly relations among Muslims.

NA/PA