Salehi : Human Rights, Backbone Of Peoples' Demands

Tehran, Aug 27, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said on Sunday that Human Rights form backbone of peoples' demands. He made the remarks in the opening session of the experts meeting of the 16th NAM summit in Tehran on Sunday. He said that the issue of human rights should not be misused by certain governments which have the worst record in violating human rights. "Human rights should not be implemented based on selective approach and should be away from double-standard policies. "Human Rights issues should be pursued based on dialogue, mutual respect, respect for countries national sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs, adopting an unbiased policy concerning their cultural, religious, social, historical and political characteristics." On the main goals of the NAM, Salehi said development, progress and peace are the main goals of the NAM and this is regarded as the main challenges of the organization. "There are a number of challenges in front of the NAM which all should be heeded in various fields such as social, security and environment. International peace and security are the priorities' of the world nations, he said adding that there are other areas of concerns which should be heeded such as internal and international disputes and conflicts, threats to environment, economic crisis, contagious diseases, organized crimes and immigration. "We need a fair, clear and efficient system to administer the international community to deal with global challenges which have roots in economic crisis, global security threats, environmental degradation, climate change, immigration and contagious diseases." To attain the goal, NAM should adopt a more coordinated stands in line with nations interests and preferences, he said. "We need to adopt a comprehensive approach with contribution of all countries to proceed with the principles of the UN Charter to promote friendship, co-existence, and mutual respect," he said. The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to shoulder this grave responsibility through chairmanship of NAM to help uphold the status and significant role of the organization in the world requiring collective contribution and assistance of all member states, Salehi said./end