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Germany urges Iran to respect ‘legitimate’ protests
BERLIN, Nov 18, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Berlin on Monday urged Iran to respect
the “legitimate” protests against a petrol price hike and open talks with the
demonstrators.
“It is legitimate and deserving of our respect when people courageously
air their economic and political grievances, as is currently happening in
Iran,” said Chancellor Angela Merkel’s spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer.
“The Iranian government should respond to the current protests with a
willingness to engage in dialogue,” she told a regular press conference,
adding that Germany was following the events “with concern”.
“We urge the government in Tehran to respect freedom of assembly and
expression.”
The French foreign ministry separately said it was “closely following” the
events in Iran.
France reiterates the need “to respect freedom of expression and the right
to peaceful protest,” a foreign ministry spokeswoman said.
At least two people have died in violent riots in Iran since Friday,
sparked by a decision to impose petrol price hikes and rationing in the
sanctions-hit country.
Major roads have been blocked, banks torched and public buildings attacked
in the nationwide unrest.
Footage of the violence showing masked young men on debris-strewn streets
setting buildings ablaze has been aired on state television, which rarely
shows any signs of dissent in the country.
Germany on Sunday tightened its travel advice for Iran, warning citizens
to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and refrain from expressing
political opinions to strangers.
BSS/AFP/BZC/1820HRS