Iranian FM spokesman condemns anti-Iran human rights resolution

TEHRAN,Dec.23(MNA) - Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast on Friday condemned the latest resolution of the United Nations General Assembly on the human rights situation in Iran. The resolution, which condemns alleged human rights violations in Iran and was drafted by Canada and co-sponsored by other Western countries, passed in an 86-32 vote with 65 abstentions on Thursday. “Unfortunately, like the trend over the past few years, a number of Western countries led by Canada and the United States have drafted resolutions against Iran under the false pretext of violating human rights,” Mehmanparast stated. He added that given the widespread violations of human rights in the very countries that have drafted resolutions against the Islamic Republic, the most recent action proves the inefficiency of the measures taken by the United Nations and the double-standard policy adopted by Western countries toward the issue of human rights. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman also said that regardless of such political interference, Iran will adhere to the shariah (Islamic law) and the principles of its Constitution to support and promote respect for the rights of all of its citizens. “The issue of human rights should not become a scene of confrontation between nations and cultures,” Mehmanparast said, adding, “But rather, the human rights, through mutual talks and respect, can pave the way for enhancing cooperation and an exchange of experience to promote human dignity.” On Thursday, Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaee also condemned the resolution in his address to the General Assembly.