EU has duty to help refugees

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani while receiving the newly-appointed Hungarian ambassador to Tehran Yanosh Kovac stressed the need for the strengthening of bilateral ties with Hungary, saying “Iran and Hungary have many opportunities for cooperation in economic, cultural and political domains; taking full advantage of these opportunities will be beneficial to the development and prosperity of both countries.”  

Rouhani then expressed his deepest grief over the dire condition of refugees and immigrants at the borders of European countries, highlighting the role and responsibility of Europe in helping with this unprecedented refugee crisis.

Noting that Iran has welcomed the most number of asylum seekers from neighboring countries, Rouhani added, “I am glad that some European countries have taken a positive stance on helping refugees out of their harrowing situation. I hope all countries in Europe and other parts of the world soon join this trend and compensate for the shortcomings.”

The Iranian president further underscored the need for a serious fight against terrorism, saying “all current problems encountered by refugees stem from extremist and terrorist groups. Terrorism has spread horror and terror across the regional countries and caused the displacement of innocent people. All the while, Europe too had experienced such severe conditions during World War I and thus must consider its historical responsibilities now.”

The Hungarian envoy, for his part, stressed his country’s efforts in developing all-out ties with Iran in economic, cultural, agricultural, educational and political fields. He also described the Islamic Republic as the center of security and stability in the region, adding “Iran’s nuclear agreement can serve as a good model for other countries in the world in order to settle international issues.”

International criticism has arisen following European leaders' inaction toward the refugee crisis. Hungary has emerged as the main entry point for refugees reaching the EU by land across the Balkan Peninsula. Most of the refugees who risk their lives to reach Europe are reportedly fleeing conflict-hit zones in Africa and the Middle East, particularly Syria and Iraq.