Iran Rejects Financial Times’ Report on Missile Talks

In a statement on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi categorically rejected as baseless the claim by the British daily The Financial Times that Tehran had, in a recent Brussels meeting, agreed to hold “an intensive and very serious dialogue” on its missile program and regional issues.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran’s policy and position on its missile defence program is crystal clear, and other countries are well aware of the stance of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” said the spokesman.

He said Iran’s stand has not changed at all despite the United States’ propaganda campaigns, threats, positions and viewpoints.

“As it has been announced time and again, Iran’s missile program is completely geared to defence and deterrence, and will not be use against any country, and making false and groundless claims will bring about no changes in this fundamental and key position of the country,” Qassemi underlined.

The spokesman reiterated that Iran will not allow any country to interfere in its domestic affairs and defence policies, especially the country’s missile program.

He also said Iran’s policy in the region is a constructive and stabilizing one aimed at further promoting peace and security in the region and across the world.

“If ill-wishers and extremists cannot help promote stability and security in the region, they are not allowed to ignore the role of Iran, which has paid a heavy price in fighting terrorism, insecurity and instability, and [are not allowed] to further fuel chaos and insecurity and spread terrorism in the region,” the spokesman underscored.