FM criticizes western states for their indifference towards refugees

Tehran, June 20, IRNA – Iran's Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi on Sunday strongly criticized the western countries for their indifferent attitude towards refugees.

Salehi made the remark in a meeting with the new representative of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in Iran, Bernard Doyle.

Due to political disputes and considerations, western states ignore their basic and legal duties in dealing with refugees, said Salehi.

The refugees have made use of Iran’s welfare, academic and educational facilities and the international society lauds such a grave task, he said.

Congratulating Bernard Doyle on his new post to the Islamic Republic of Iran, Salehi expressed hope to witness outstanding development with regards to the status of refugees in Iran as well as other neighboring states.

Bernard Doyle, for his part, praised Iran for performing their duties to the best of their ability regarding refugees, calling it admirable.

He said that Iran's benevolent act in hosting millions of Afghans and other foreign refugees will remain in the historical memory of all nations.

He also submitted a copy of his credentials to Salehi.