A high-ranking official at the United Nations says UN-Arab League Special Envoy for Syria Lakhdar Brahimi has stated that Iran is definitely among countries participating in the forthcoming Geneva 2 conference on the ongoing crisis in Syria.
Mr. Brahimi made clear that Iran is certainly among the list of possible participants, UN spokesman Martin Nesirky said in a press briefing on Monday in response to a question about Irans presence in the peace talks on Syria.
He added, A list has not been established yet, and discussions on participants are continuing. The list of invitees remains under discussion.
On September 29, Brahimi stated that it would be beneficial if Iran takes part in the Geneva 2 conference and there is the possibility of inviting the Islamic Republic.
In a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in New York on October 2, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon also underscored Tehrans decisive role in the settlement of the crisis in the Arab country, stressing the need for Irans presence in any international talks on Syria.
Russia and China have also urged the presence of Iran in the Geneva 2 conference.
On Monday, Ban said the conference aimed at resolving the conflict in Syria will be held on January 22, 2014.
Syria has been gripped by deadly unrest since 2011. Reports indicate that the Western powers and their regional allies -- especially Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey -- are supporting the militants operating inside the country.
According to the United Nations, more than 100,000 people have been killed and millions displaced in the violence.