NEWS RELEASES
MANLEY EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT OVER OUTCOME OF IRANIAN TRIAL
January 17, 2001 (2:00 p.m. EST) No. 7
MANLEY EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT OVER
OUTCOME OF IRANIAN TRIAL
John Manley, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today expressed deep disappointment over
the harsh sentences handed down to seven Iranians on January 13 by the
Revolutionary Court in Tehran. The defendants, who were convicted of crimes against
the state for attending a conference in Berlin sponsored by the Green Party to discuss
political developments in Iran, were each given from four to ten years.
"These sentences further weaken the credibility of the Iranian judiciary," said Mr.
Manley. "In deference to the rule of law, we call on that body to review these cases in
an independent manner and overturn the convictions and sentences."
The Minister noted Canada's support for the reform process in Iran, and pledged to
continue raising human rights and civil society issues with senior government officials
there.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Jennifer Sloan
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
| 
