Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi says the countries of the region will be affected by any “negative” development in Syria. he made the remarks during a meeting with Syrian Oil Minister Said Maza Hanidi in Tehran on Tuesday night. Salehi said there is a political solution to the Syrian crisis, adding, “Any negative change in Syria will have a negative impact on neighboring countries and states throughout the region.” The Iranian foreign minister also reaffirmed the Islamic Republic’s support for the Syrian government and people. Commenting on the Syrian government’s declaration of a nationwide truce on the occasion of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice), Salehi expressed regret over the breach of the ceasefire by foreign-backed insurgents. The Iranian foreign minister also stated that Iran is interested in strengthening its economic ties with Syria and cooperating in joint projects. For his part, the Syrian oil minister thanked Iran for its support of the Syrian government and nation and expressed hope that the two countries would expand their ties in the future.