PACE discusses situation in Iran

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.