Iranian President Hassan defended Iran’s growing military presence in Syria, claiming that the Islamic Republic was engaged in “fighting terrorism.” During a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, both parties discussed bilateral relations, regional affairs and issues related to the nuclear deal. On the Syrian issue, Rouhani told Macron that “unlike the illegitimate presence of certain states in that country, the presence of Iranian advisers in Syrian is quite legal and based on the official request of the Syrian government with an aim of fighting terrorism.” He expressed hope that with the joint efforts of pro-government forces and the Syrian people, terrorism will be eradicated from the country and there would be no need for foreign military presence. He went on to refer to the good progress made in drafting the new constitution of Syria and welcomed continuation of consultations between Iran and France to establish stability and peace in the country.