Reply

9.6.2006

The Council is aware of the ethnic diversity of Iran. It has frequently mentioned its concerns about discrimination against minorities inside Iran, including ethnic minorities. For example, the UNGA resolution on the human rights situation in Iran adopted last December and sponsored by the European Union expressed serious concern at the continuing discrimination and other human rights violations against persons belonging to ethnic minorities. The Council is also aware of the violent incidents which have taken place in the province of Khuzestan and of the circumstances surrounding the planned visit by President Ahmadinejad. The EU will continue to raise human rights issues directly with Iran and in international bodies, including concerns relating to the treatment of ethnic minorities. The EU hopes that it will be possible to arrange another session of the EU‑Iran human rights dialogue before long.

The Council remains committed to supporting Iraq's political transition and its economic and social reconstruction.

OJ C 328, 30/12/2006