DAMASCUS,  (SANA) _ President Bashar al-Assad called on Thursday for upgrading cooperation among countries of the Organization of Islamic Conference ( OIC ) in all areas for more effective role on the regional and international arenas.

That came  when President Al-Assad received the OIC Secretary General Mr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu. Talks dealt with the indirect peace negotiations between Syria and Israel, mediated by Turkey, and the importance of reaching a just and comprehensive peace that would bring security and stability to the region.

Developments in the region were also reviewed. President al-Assad explained efforts made by Syria, through heading the Arab Summit, for the unity of the Palestinian ranks and implementing the terms of the Doha agreement among the Lebanese parties.

President al-Assad and Ihsanoglu touched upon conference of the OIC Tourism Ministers, recently held in Damascus. 

Later, Ihsanoglu described his meeting with President al-Assad as " constructive and fruitful and dealt with various issues that concern the Arab and Islamic worlds,"

" The role played by Syria to solve problems and issues of the region is essential and pivotal role," He told SANA reporter.

Ihsanoglu added : " We are pleased that Syria has made great steps in advancing the work of the OIC, " touching upon conference of OIC Tourism Ministers, recently held in Damascus. He indicated that Syria, next year and for the first time, will host the OIC Foreign Ministers meeting.

The OIC Secretary General noted that the upturn that began in the issues of the region, particularly in Lebanon and Palestine, would contribute in ending the tense situation and in pushing the peace efforts forward.

He thanked and appreciated Syria's support to the work of the OIC.

Ghossoun /