INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
expression and urging French authorities to resolve the matter promptly.Speaking at his weekly press conference on Monday, Foreign Ministry
Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei expressed serious concern over the detention of Iranian citizen Mahdieh Esfandiari and another Iranian citizen in
Paris, describing the arrests as a violation of freedom of expression and a form of complicity with crimes occurring in the region.Baghaei
said Tehran had formally raised the issue with French authorities and pursued it through relevant diplomatic channels
He announced that Iran had secured agreement for a consular meeting with Esfandiari and called on the French government to swiftly clarify
the situation."Our citizens have committed no crime other than expressing their emotions regarding the atrocities currently unfolding in the
region," Baghaei stressed.Responding to a question about Iran's broader efforts to protect its nationals abroad, Baghaei emphasized that the
Foreign Ministry considers it a duty to follow up on any challenges faced by Iranian citizens internationally
"We are pleased that a step has been taken in Ms
lines are strictly observed
He expressed hope that European countries would adopt a positive role in ongoing discussions.Regarding the scheduling of further
trips to China and Russia, during which intensive consultations were held regarding developments in Gaza and the West Bank
"Unfortunately, the genocide in Gaza continues with increasing brutality," he said, adding that nearly 300 innocent people were killed there
partnership with Beijing is based on mutual respect and shared interests, contrasting it with the destabilizing role of Western powers in
sympathy with the Indian people and emphasized that Iran values its long-standing relations with both countries
"We hope tensions subside; we do not welcome instability between these two important Asian neighbors," he said, noting that both the
He said the visit would open a new chapter in bilateral relations and stressed the importance of stability in the South
strengthened ties with African nations, although greater potential remains to be tapped.
This article first appeared/also appeared in Tehran Times
