IRAN DETERMINED TO EXPAND COMPREHENSIVE COOPERATION WITH BOSNIA

TEHRAN, Iran (January 22,2008) – The Iranian Majlis Speaker Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel has criticized the European Union for obeying U.S. dictates, saying, “We advise European leaders to avoid following the United States blindly.”

In a meeting with the Bosnian Ambassador to Iran Senahid Bistric yesterday, Haddad-Adel said the U.S. is seeking to rule the world.

“The United States is trying to block any movement leading to the development of Muslim’s political status due to its animosity towards Islamic establishment.”

Referring to the upcoming membership of Bosnia in the EU, Haddad-Adel expressed hope that the European country would seize the opportunity to “defend the rights of the Islamic states”.

“It is expected that the presence of Bosnia in the EU would further familiarize the Western societies with Islamic culture and history.”

He described Tehran-Sarajevo relations as “good and friendly”, saying, “The Iranian nation has proved its loyalty to the people of Bosnia during the time of war and peace.”

Haddad-Adel said the Islamic Republic is determined to expand comprehensive cooperation with Bosnia.

The Bosnian Ambassador Bistric expressed hope that Bosnia will fulfill its duties in defending the rights of Islamic countries in the European Union.

“Bosnia regards Iran as a very important country which enjoys rich culture and great civilization,” he said.

The Bosnian Ambassador also called for further expansion of cooperation in political, economic, and cultural spheres between the two friendly countries.