Statement by

Mr. Ali Karimi Magham

Political Attaché

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Before the Third Committee, UNGA 76

On Item 74: Promotion and Protection of Human Rights

Chair of the Working Group on the Issue of Human Rights and Transnational Corporations and other Business Enterprises

New York, 14 October 2021

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful.

Mr. Chair,

The Islamic Republic of Iran supports responsible interaction with transnational corporations but would like to emphasize on the development centered approach towards the topic. The essence of the realization of the right to development is, as stipulated in Article 1 of the Charter of the United Nations, to achieve international co-operation, solve international problems and promote and encourage respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all.

In line with its obligations under international laws and human rights law, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran is close to ratifying the Comprehensive Regulations on corporate Social Responsibility. The draft legislation seeks to establish liable different-sized corporations, and to provide a regulatory basis for future development and international cooperation.

Mr. Chair,

The Islamic Republic of Iran has been actively engaged with the working group to draft a convention to regulate the activities of transnational corporations. We would like to emphasize that without addressing the inhumane and illegal unilateral coercive measures, the regulatory approach does not suffice. The United States’ unlawful unilateral coercive measures – a horrendous practice that is also unfortunately followed by its allies – have dealt a hefty blow to our economy and continue to impede the realization of all human rights including but not limited to the right to development, and trampled upon norms and principles of international laws.

I thank you.