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Asefi: US misinterprets ElBaradei report on Iran's nuclear issue

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Nov 20, IRNA
Iran-Asefi-Nuclear
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi ere Sunday said that the US along with some of its allies attempted to misinterpret the report of UN nuclear watchdog chief, Mohamed ElBaradei, and disseminate baseless news to the media about production of atomic bomb by Iran.

Speaking to domestic and foreign reporters at this week's briefing session, Asefi said that there is no significant change in the volume and amount of the economic and trade exchanges between Iran and the EU.

In reply to a question about the resolution issued by the European Parliament against Iran on the human rights issue and its impact on the IAEA governing board meeting in November, he said, "A survey of the performance of US and Europeans in this respect shows that they themselves have been among the world's worst violators of human rights.

"Horrible prisons, Torture Plane, their approach towards Muslim and non-Muslim minorities as well as severe social discriminations and problems in the West are the major reasons for violation of human rights there."
Asefi dismissed any direct link between the resolution issued by the European Parliament and the IAEA Board of Governors, adding that it is quite natural that some circles always attempt to pressurize the UN nuclear watchdog.

In response to another question about the US reaction to Iran's positive measures in Iraq and Afghanistan, he said that what has been done in both countries are based on Iran's humanitarian duties and responsibilities in the region.

"The US hostile attitude towards Iran, irrespective of the steps taken by the Iranians, is quite normal. We proceed with our responsibilities without paying any attention to the assessment of other countries."
Concerning the Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki's visit to Cairo and the perspective of Iran-Egypt ties, he said that during the visit, which mainly dealt with Iraq, he also held talks with Egyptian officials.

"The issue of bilateral relations has its own process, which is dominated by a favorable atmosphere. However, establishment of ties should rather be followed up through its particular procedure," he added.

About the reason for having Iraq-Iran flights cancelled, he said that Iran's Civil Aviation Organization is in position to
clarify the issue.

"However, high cost of tickets and the issue of security should also be taken into account," he added.

Asefi pointed to the Foreign Ministry's proposal about the Palestine issue to be submitted to the UN and said that it is now being examined.

"It mainly concerns the return of Palestinians to their homeland and holding a referendum with participation of various groups, religions and nationalities," he added.

Turning to the recent presidential election in Sri Lanka, he said that despite all the ups and down in the runup, it was eventually carried out.

"According to the reports released, a free election was held and we welcome the result," he added.

The official announced that Iran would support the trend of promotion of security and stability in Sri Lanka and is prepared to participate in the process.

He stressed Iran's readiness for expansion of mutual ties with Sri Lanka's new government.

In response to another question raised about the difference of views among the heads of states about Iran's nuclear dossier, he dismissed it.

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