Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, 41st Session of the Human Rights Council
Intervention by
Mr. Mohsen Ghanei
Delegate of the Islamic Republic of Iran
بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم
Mr. President;
The situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has become more complicated. Considerable number of People is in need of food, medicine and medical services. The unity of the society is in danger and foreign intervention and military threats have exacerbated the political, economic, and social situations. In such circumstances, deliberate distribution of the humanitarian aid through abnormal channels has further politicized and deteriorated the already-complex conditions. Therefore, one cannot conclude that the analysis of the country's human rights situation is an easy task. It should be done in a careful manner.
My government, in previous years, has done its best to invest in housing, health, agriculture, and industry sectors and, herewith, contributed to the sustained economic growth, sustainable development, and social relief in Venezuela.
Along with the Special Rapporteur and the High Commissioner, we are deeply concerned over the widespread and destructive impacts of the imposed unilateral sanctions in Venezuela. Despite the fact that 75% of the national budget is allocated to social relief programs, the social and economic rights of the Venezuelan people are under constant threat due to ongoing unilateral sanctions. We are of the view that the immediate removal of all economic sanctions is indispensable in any solution.
We welcome the intra-Venezuelan talks, initiated by the government and accepted by the opposition group. We believe that genuine dialogue among the Venezuelans could lead to less and less conflicts and rebuilding of trust between all Venezuelan parties. In that context, the release of several jailed opposition members by the government was a grand gesture and could be counted as positive step in restoring peace and tranquility in the country.
I thank you.