PACE DISCUSSES SITUATION IN IRAN

/PanARMENIAN.Net/
26.06.2009 19:33 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ After morning debates over "Situation in Iran",
PACE adopted a resolution concerning the country on Thursday, June 25.

Parliamentarians strongly condemned June 13 developments and expressed
concerns over human rights situation in Iran. Rapporteurs stressed
the importance of EU and Europe’s active role in ensuring democracy
and fundamental freedoms in the country.

The document says that since 13 June 2009, Iran has been the scene
of the biggest popular upheaval since the 1979 revolution.

"Massive protests following the announcement of the results of the
presidential election which was held on 12 June, calls for annulment
of the vote by the opposition supporters and the reaction of the
authorities, who have used violence against peaceful demonstrators,
detained hundreds of them and imposed severe restrictions on the
freedom of expression, raise the utmost concern about possible future
developments.," the resolution says.

The Assembly urges Iranian authorities to refrain from using force and
violence against peaceful demonstrators, release the people detained
during the peaceful demonstrations (including politicians and their
families) and lift restrictions on freedom of expression.

The Assembly also urged Iranian authorities to allow an independent and
credible investigation into alleged irregularities in election process,
initiate constructive dialogue over country’s political situation,
make positive response to the US administration’s approach and initiate
constructive dialogue with the purpose of creating an atmosphere of
mutual trust. The report calls on Iran to privilege dialogue.

In addition, PACE also appealed to observer states to strengthen ties
with Iranian government and establish political dialogue.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress