TEHRAN – Iranian parliamentary officials called on European countries to resist unilateralism and reaffirmed Iran’s determination to expand diplomatic and economic ties with Serbia and Oman at the 151st General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva.
Vice-President Hamidreza Hadji Babei met with Vice-President of the Serbian Parliament Din Yerlik and stressed the importance of constructive decisions on the sidelines of the IPU General Assembly. He highlighted the upcoming visit of the Speaker of the Serbian Parliament to Tehran and said that the historical relations between Iran and Serbia provide a strong basis for expanding bilateral cooperation.
Haji Babei also criticized European countries for following the US policy following the JCPOA. “The United States withdrew from the agreement, but the three European countries raised the issue of a snapback mechanism. The time for UN Security Council Resolution 2231 has passed, making this discussion meaningless,” he said. “It is not appropriate for European countries to become unquestioned followers of the United States,” he added.
He reaffirmed support for Iran’s national sovereignty and independence and called on the European Union to uphold legality and ethics in international affairs. He pointed out that illegal acts are not in the interests of any country and warned that undermining the fundamental principles of the United Nations threatens global stability. Haji Babaei particularly criticized violations of international norms, including actions by Israel and the United States that undermine efforts to fight terrorism and protect children.
Serbian Vice-President Jerlik highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relations between Iran and Serbia dating back to 1889, welcomed Iran’s participation in the World Expo to be held in Serbia in 2027, and praised Iran’s recognition of Serbian cultural works in the National Library of Iran. Mr. Dzerlik also called for greater cooperation in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, sports and banking, and highlighted the potential for greater parliamentary cooperation.
On the sidelines of the IPU General Assembly, Haji Babaei also met with Khalid bin Hilal bin Nasser Al Marwari, Speaker of the Omani Parliament. The two leaders discussed the historically close and strategically important relationship between Iran and Oman and emphasized growing economic ties. Haji Babaei noted that the 12-day war launched by Israel and the United States has highlighted the regional threat posed by Israel beyond Gaza and Iran, and expressed hope for continued cooperation.
Chairman Al Marwari praised Iran’s historic support for Oman and expressed concern over the ongoing situation in Palestine. He noted that bombing of Gaza continues even after the ceasefire, and said the humanitarian situation is catastrophic.