Washington: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged the international community to ensure a multilateral approach to resolve the world’s crises including wars, discrimination and hunger.
Speaking at the UN’s Summit of the Future at the world body’s headquarters in New York on Monday, Pezeshkian said an immediate ceasefire in Gaza was a prerequisite for global development and regional stability.
He added that Israel should end its “genocide” of the Palestinian people and its occupation of the latter’s territories.
“An immediate ceasefire in Gaza is a prerequisite for global development, and that Iran is ready to work with other countries to achieve common goals,” he said.
Pezeshkian reportedly said at a gathering on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York that “we are willing to put all of our weapons aside, so long as Israel is willing to do the same.”
He expressed his opposition to the US arming of Israel for its brutal war in Gaza and south Lebanon.
“We cannot have outside actors come in, arm one side to the teeth and prevent the other side from having the means to defend themselves,” he said.
On domestic issues, Pezeshkian said his government supports the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and has prioritized poverty alleviation measures and improving health care, social security and public education.
Addressing the US’ decades-long sanctions on Iran, Pezeshkian said these unilateral actions hinder the development and prosperity of targeted nations.
“I propose to the UN Security Council in collaboration with countries affected by unilateral sanctions (to) present a comprehensive report on this matter to the General Assembly,” he said.
He also called for the reform of international financial institutions by including developing nations in governance processes.
Addressing the issue of Tehran’s controversial atomic energy program, Pezeshkian said Iran supports a Middle East free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.
He added that Iran was willing to work with other nations to fight terrorism and promote regional stability.
“Iran seeks a strong secure and stable region where the resources are used to advance the nations of the region,” he said.
