Iran-UNHCR-Mottaki
Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said on Saturday that the failed policies of big powers have increased insecurity, instability in neighboring Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mottaki made the remarks while receiving the credentials of the new Representative of UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to Tehran Carlos Zaccagnini de Ory on Saturday.

"Unfortunately the policies of international organizations coupled with interference of big powers did not help resolve the ongoing crisis in Iraq and Afghanistan," Mottaki said.

Current developments have led to continued asylum-seeking of a large number of people in those countries, he said.

Iran is to fulfill its commitments to refugees who have registered, he said adding that those refugees who have entered the country through illegal channels will be dealt with.

"Unfortunately some countries have considered the issue of refugees as a political means to exert pressure on other countries," Mottaki said.

He called on these countries to change their attitude on the issue.

The new UNHCR envoy to Tehran, while submitting his credentials to Mottaki, said he is determined to help broaden cooperation between UNHCR and Iran during his tenure.

He also called for Iran's assistance in conducting the humanitarian duties of UNHCR.