Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said in Damascus on Saturday that Iran supports a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and warned Israel that it would respond proportionately to any attacks, and if necessary, with greater force.
At a press conference wrapping up his one-day visit to Syria, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to standing by the "resistance" against Israel, noting that the country will continue its aid and coordination with Syria to support displaced Lebanese refugees.
"There are two main urgent issues on our agenda, firstly the conditions of the Lebanese refugees both in Lebanon and Syria and secondly the establishment of a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. Regarding the ceasefire efforts, we have had good discussions, there are currently initiatives by regional countries and some countries from outside the region. We are seeking a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon," said Araghchi.
He added that Iran has already sent humanitarian aid to Syria to help the Lebanese refugees in Syria, with more expected to arrive soon.
On the possibility of an Israeli attack on Iran, Araghchi warned, "Our response to any strike by the Israeli entity is very clear and for every action there will be a response from Iran in a similar, consistent manner and even stronger manner. This is what we have proven in the past and they can test our will again."
Araghchi mentioned that regional and international initiatives for a ceasefire are currently under discussion, but he refrained from providing specific details. He stressed that any ceasefire conditions must be acceptable to both Palestinians and Lebanese.
When asked about Iran's relationship with Syria, Araghchi highlighted the deep-rooted strategic partnership between the two nations, and emphasized that Iran's support for Syria will continue under all circumstances.
During the visit, the Iranian foreign minister also held meetings with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali, during which they discussed cooperation to secure humanitarian assistance to Lebanese families fleeing the Israeli military assault in Lebanon.
Iran backs ceasefire in Gaza, Lebanon, warns of stronger retaliation against Israel: FM
Iran backs ceasefire in Gaza, Lebanon, warns of stronger retaliation against Israel: FM
Macao has been emerging as a global hub for conventions and exhibitions in recent years by exploring the enormous opportunities in the sector, driving the region to advance its economic diversification and embrace a brighter future.
Macao has received many awards this year, such as the Best Convention City (Asia) and the Best BT-MICE City, showcasing the recognition for and influence of Macao's exhibition industry.
More than 1,000 electronic game enthusiasts from all over the world gathered recently in Macao to participate in a esports themed event.
Su Zhili, organizer of the event, said that Macao's rich experience in hosting large-scale events, coupled with its good infrastructure, has driven him to choose the region as an ideal destination to hold such an activity.
"Macao has held many similar large-scale events. It has rich experience, and the facilities at the venue are relatively mature, so we can start our work comfortably," said Su.
During the first three quarters of 2024, Macao held more than 1,000 conferences and exhibitions in total.
"We will invite more professional, special conferences to be held in Macao and also cultivate more exhibition brands with international influence in Macao, so as to promote Macao's exhibitions to be more market-oriented, professional, international, digital and greener from various aspects. This is our goal," said Elaine Wong, member of the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute.
In addition, multiple large exhibitions and conferences, such as the Macao International Trade and Investment fair, the Macao Franchise Expo, and the International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum, are held regularly in Macao.
With the introduction of a series of policies and measures to facilitate the exchanges between the mainland and Macao, as well as the construction and development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Macao's convention and exhibition industry will embrace more opportunities for development in the foreseeable future.
"We have such a good industrial base in the Greater Bay Area. The mode of 'Convention and Exhibition + Industry' not only integrates the industries of Macao, but also the industries of the Greater Bay Area. In addition, Macao actively integrates into the national development and plays a role in the Belt and Road. Why are we so confident in Macao's convention and exhibition sector? Because it is backed by the motherland, and the country gives Macao great support," said Alan Ho, chairman of the Macao Association of Convention, Exhibition and Tourism Sectors.
Macao emerges as global hub for conventions and exhibitions, driving economic diversification and international recognition
