Terrorism, extremism more dangerous than Ebola: Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has described terrorism as a “disease” more dangerous than Ebola, expressing Tehran’s readiness to help contain the threatening phenomenon.

“The diseases of terrorism and extremism are much more dangerous that Ebola,” President Rouhani said at a meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Iran Francois del Marmol on Monday.

Rouhani called the escalation of terrorism in the region a “menace,” and said that the only solution to the problem would be “consultation, coordination, and cooperation among countries.”

“The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to consult with all influential countries in this regard.”

Rouhani also touched upon the ongoing nuclear talks between Iran and six world powers to reach a final deal on the Islamic Republic’s nuclear energy program, saying, “If there is a serious political will among the sides [involved] in the negotiations, a final comprehensive agreement can be reached within the remaining time.”

He further noted that the outcome of a comprehensive deal on Iran’s nuclear energy program will be a “win-win for all sides.”

Rouhani also underlined the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear activities, saying, the fatwa (religious decree) by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei against the use of nuclear weapons is “the most important guarantee that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful.”

The Iranian President also pointed to age-old relations between the Tehran and Brussels, saying, baseless pretexts, which have been behind cruel sanctions against Iran, should not harm the countries that have had good relations with Iran in the past.

For his part, the Belgian ambassador, who met with the president to submit his credentials, said, “Iran is a big and powerful country in the region and we want the expansion of ties” with Tehran.

He further expressed hope that sanctions against Iran would be lifted sooner, saying, “I hope with the removal of obstacles, we can see Belgian businessmen in Iran.”
[…]