Hawzah News Agency (Damascus, Syria) – Hujjat al-Islam Sayyed Abolfazl Tabatabaee Ashkezari met with the archbishop of Syrian Orthodox Church on Wednesday, January 17 in the city of Damascus.

During the meeting, the Iranian cleric asserted, "Such interfaith meetings strengthen unity among followers of different religions and promote cultural interactions among them."

Hujjat al-Islam Tabatabaee added, "Syria has long hosted scholars and followers of different faiths in which they live together in peace and harmony."

"The Islamic Republic of Iran, Syria and all Muslims around the world are ready to stand against deviant doctrines and extremist movements in order to preserve genuine religious thoughts."

Representative of Iranian Supreme Leader in Syria further added, "Together we must stand united to fight takfiri terrorists who insulted Muslim and Christian sanctities in Syria."

Pointing out the good historic relationship between Christians and Muslims in Syria, Hujjat al-Islam Tabatabaee urged promoting such friendly ties in future.

"One of the common issues between Muslims and Christians is their stance on the issue of Palestine and our support for the liberation of al-Aqsa mosque.

Hujjat al-Islam Tabatabaee concluded, "We hope that Jerusalem al-Quds will be liberated by the hands of Muslims, Christians and followers of monotheistic religions worldwide."