‘Iran’s quest for freedom is the reason behind sanctions’

TEHRAN, Sept.11(MNA) – Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Rahimi said Iran is being punished with sanctions due to the fact that the country does not want to be subservient to hegemonistic powers.

Rahimi made the remarks during a meeting with Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa in Quito late on Friday.

He commented on the imposition of sanctions against Iran and said hegemonistic powers will not be able to prevent Iran from promoting relations with independent countries such as Ecuador.

He went on to say that today Iran sees no obstacle in the way of cementing ties with Ecuador, adding, the Iranian delegation to Ecuador has held several brief meetings with high-ranking Ecuadorian officials which were highly promising.

In the meeting, Correa also expressed satisfaction at the presence of the Iranian delegation in his country and emphasized the necessity of removing barriers to the implementation of agreements between the two countries.

He also said the Ecuadorian government has always welcomed the investment made by Iranian companies in his country.

“This matter is not only rooted in our interest in Iran but is also rooted in the history and old civilization, as well as scientific advances of the country,” Correa noted.

Commenting on the friendly relations between Iran and Ecuador, he called for closer cooperation in all areas particularly economic cooperation.