Sir, – With reference to your article “Russia, China and Iran could target UK via Irish ‘backdoor’, think tank warns” (News, February 4th), I would like to point out that only one very short paragraph refers to Iran. The paragraph in question makes a claim that is factually baseless and sensationalist and meant to cause animosity toward Iran. Facts tell us that Iran and Ireland’s relations have always has been respectful, friendly and historically of good repute. In common with the Irish Government, Iran fully rejects violence and supports the ongoing peace process on the island of Ireland. Both Ireland and Iran have long suffered from British colonialism and interference. This article appears to take normal and balanced international relations, using the UK’s historical colonial approach of “divide and conquer”, to suggest a potentially divisive strategy, perpetuated in new forms. After optimistic events, the timing of this article seems to suggest that some parts of the British establishment are seeking to sully this moment of hopefulness on the island of Ireland.
Iran is a great and ancient nation, but with our three diplomatic and three support staff here in Dublin this report is attributing near-mythical powers to us, on top of our day-to-day diplomatic and consular work! – Yours, etc,
KAZEM SHARIF KAZEMI,
Chargé d’Affaires,
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Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.