UK denies interference in Iran post-vote unrest

[joeblow]

UK denies interference in Iran post-vote unrest
Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:37:33 GMT

http://www.presstv.com/detail/98688.htm ... =351020601


British Foreign Secretary David Miliband rejects role in Iran's post-election unrest.

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband has rejected Iran's claims regarding the interference of foreign countries in the post-election unrest in the country.

"I reject categorically the idea that the protestors in Iran are manipulated or motivated by foreign countries," Miliband said on Sunday.

His remark came after Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki spoke out against Western efforts that seek to dramatize the rallies held in Tehran and other cities in protest at the result of the country's 10th presidential election.

Miliband denied claims by his Iranian counterpart, saying, "Foreign Minister Mottaki's attempt in remarks to diplomats in Tehran this morning to turn the dispute among Iranians about the election results into a battle between Iran and other countries -- the UK in particular -- is without foundation."

"The UK is categorical that it is for the Iranian people to choose their government, and for the Iranian authorities to ensure the fairness of the result and the protection of their own people," he added.

Miliband also expressed concern about reports by Iranian officials that at least 13 people were killed and 20 wounded in violence in Tehran on Saturday. "These reports will raise the level of concern among Iranians and around the world."

In his Sunday address to foreign reporters, Mottaki responded to “irresponsible and intrusive remarks” made by certain Western countries.

He focused much of his criticism on France, Germany and Britain, advising them to “think twice before questioning the democratic process of the recent election”.

Mottaki criticized the British foreign secretary for his inappropriate and illogical comments on Iran's elections. He blamed Britain for causing insecurity in the Middle East by helping create the Zionist regime.

The US and a slew of European powers namely Britain and France, in recent days, have lashed out at the Iranian government's attempts to restore security in the country.

Presidential contenders Mir-Hossein Moussavi and Mehdi Karroubi reject the result as fraudulent and demand a re-run.

Supporters of Moussavi, the last Iranian prime minister, have held mass rallies since incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was declared victor of the June 12.

SF/SC/HGH