‘Trust in the UN has vanished’ - Araghchi sets out Iran’s priorities
Key Takeaways
- Araghchi said Iran will use the UN General Assembly to defend its rights and interests.
- He argued that trust in the United Nations has declined because of its failure to maintain international peace and security.
- Iranian officials said several members of Pezeshkian’s delegation were denied US visas.
Iran’s foreign minister said Tehran will use the UN General Assembly to defend its interests and hold diplomatic talks following what he described as an “unjust war.”
Iran will use the 81st United Nations General Assembly to defend its interests and engage with other countries as it remains in what Tehran describes as a continuing “state of war,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday.
Speaking in New York, Araghchi outlined Tehran’s priorities for the gathering following what he described as an “unjust war” waged by the United States and Israel.
"Indeed, a situation that continues as a state of war. Naturally, our most important goal is to be present on a major international platform to defend the legitimacy, rights, and interests of the Iranian people," Araghchi stated.
Iran Plans Diplomatic Meetings
President Masoud Pezeshkian is expected to address the General Assembly during his visit to New York.
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Araghchi said the Iranian president would also meet Iranian and foreign intellectuals, media figures and thinkers, while taking part in several media interviews.
The foreign minister also plans to meet counterparts from several countries, describing the discussions as an 'opportunity to review Iran's relations with various countries.'
Araghchi arrived in New York on Monday as head of Iran’s diplomatic delegation. Pezeshkian travelled separately to attend the annual gathering of world leaders.
Araghchi Questions Trust in UN
Araghchi also criticised the effectiveness of the United Nations, arguing that its inability to maintain international peace and security had damaged confidence in the organisation.
"The theme chosen for this year’s UN General Assembly, 'Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all,' is itself an admission that trust in the organisation has vanished among all countries - unfortunately because of its inefficiency in maintaining international peace and security. This is because several countries consider it their right to do whatever they want, paying no heed to any international body, any international law," he continued.
Iranian officials said the United States denied visas to several members of Pezeshkian’s delegation, including his media team. Washington had not publicly responded to the claims at the time of publication.
The United States approved entry for the core Iranian delegation, including Pezeshkian and Araghchi, but imposed restrictions on travel and purchases during their stay.
The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly opened in New York on September 8. The general debate runs from September 22 to 26 and concludes on September 28.
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This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
