A ceremony to commemorate the 79th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations was held on Monday, October 28, at the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Institute for Political and International Studies. The event was attended by Kazem Gharibabadi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Stefan Priesner, UN Resident Coordinator for the Islamic Republic of Iran; Ms. Jila Mahdi Aghaei, a senior advisor to the head of the Iranian Department of Environment, and several representatives and ambassadors of foreign countries residing in Tehran.
In his speech, Gharibabadi highlighted the role of the Islamic Republic of Iran as one of the founding members of the United Nations. He emphasized Iran's commitment to promoting multilateralism and efforts to enhance the culture of peace, justice, cooperation, and international coexistence based on international law and the principles of the UN Charter. He added that addressing current regional and international crises and challenges is not possible without the joint efforts of all countries and nations.
The Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “The most significant tragedy and crisis in today's world is the continuation of the unprecedented campaign of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the usurping and aggressor Zionist regime against the people of the region, particularly the oppressed and defenseless people of Palestine in Gaza and Lebanon, with the unconditional support of the United States and countries claiming to uphold human rights. Unfortunately, the dimensions of these crimes have been increasing daily in an uncontrolled manner over the past year.”
He added, “The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that any form of unilateral coercive measure contradicts the objectives and principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. Such actions, in practice, lead to the weakening of the rule of law at the international level, global order, international solidarity, multilateralism, and ultimately the authority of the United Nations.”
“The Islamic Republic of Iran has always chosen the path of diplomacy and dialogue to resolve international and regional issues and emphasizes de-escalation and stability in the region. We believe in and stress the central role of the United Nations in this regard and invite everyone to move in this direction. At the same time, the government and the great nation of Iran will firmly stand against any aggression against its territorial integrity and independence.”
Priesner also referred to the fruitful and long-standing relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran as one of the founding members of the United Nations and the presence of the UN Office in Iran since 1950. He reviewed some actions and activities of the organization in Iran over the past year, acknowledging the new Iranian administration’s efforts in advancing inclusive development and practical engagement with the international community.