Iran is prepared to have a substantial share in reconstruction of Lebanon following massive destruction of the country by Israel, IRNA reported.

"People of Lebanon have passed the period of war and succeeded in defeating their illegitimate enemy," Vice-President for Executive Affairs Ali Saeedloo told a news conference in the Iranian embassy in Lebanon.

"We hope to play our role in the post-war period with the reconstruction of what has been devastated by the Zionist regime's aggression and assist the people of Lebanon," he added.

He told journalists that the brave defence of the Lebanese people against the enemy has earned the spiritual and material support of all freedom lovers for the nation.

"After my negotiations today (Tuesday) with the president and prime minister of Lebanon, it was agreed that we would start the first phase of assisting the people of Lebanon with reconstruction of their roads," the vice-president announced.

He also said that Iran has agreed to repair damaged schools and religious sites and will start reconstruction work within the shortest possible time.

"Municipalities in Tehran, Mashad and Isfahan have expressed their readiness to take part in reconstruction and re-organization of Lebanese cities," Saeedloo said.

... Payvand News - 8/30/06 ... --