Source: http://missions.itu.int/~missiran/sts2007/07091301HRC.htm http://missions.itu.int/~missiran/sts2007/07091301HRC.htm
Date: September 13, 2007

Statement by H.E. Ali Reza Moaiyeri, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran before the Sixth Session of the Human Rights Council on the Report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights   

Geneva – 13 September 2007

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful 

Mr. President,

Allow me at the outset to express my appreciation to Madam. Louise Arbour, High Commissioner for Human Rights for her updated report.

As you are aware, The 14th Non-Aligned Movement Summit in Havana in September, 2006 adopted the proposal of the Islamic Republic of Iran for hosting NAM Ministerial Meeting on Human Rights and Cultural Diversity. Accordingly, I have the honor to inform the Human Rights Council that the NAM Ministerial Meeting on Human Rights and Cultural Diversity was held successfully on September 3rd and 4th 2007, in Tehran with participation of more than one hundred high level delegations from NAM Member States including 60 Ministers as well as some prominent international officials such as the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Secretary General of the OIC.  

Tehran Ministerial Meeting provided a platform to lay greater emphasis on the importance of respect for culture as one of the fundamental human rights and explored all avenues for further enrichment of the universality of human rights through respect for cultural diversity and promotion of inter-cultural dialogue and interaction.

Tehran Ministerial Meeting after two days of objective and fruitful discussions and deliberations adopted a Declaration and Program of Action on Human Rights and Cultural Diversity, in which NAM member states renewed their commitment to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms including the right to preserve cultural identity which is a defining characteristic of humanity. They also decided to establish a NAM Center for Human Rights and Cultural Diversity in Tehran. The Center will serve as a focal point to enhance cooperation and dialogue among Non-Aligned Movement member states as well as between these countries and other United Nations member states with the purpose of inter alia, the realization of the goals and objectives contained in Tehran Declaration and Program of Action. 

Mr. President, allow me at the end, to extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of Cuba as the Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement as well as all Permanent Missions of the NAM member states in Geneva for their valuable contribution in the process of negotiations of the Tehran Final Declaration and Program of Action.

Thank You