TEHRAN -- The Minister of Science, Research and Technology Mohammad-Mehdi Zahedi in a letter addressed to Director General of UNESCO, Koichiro Matsuura, expressed his concern over the publication in several European newspapers of cartoons that insulted the Prophet Muhammad (S) and his hope that UNESCO will take action in this matter.

Zahedi noted that UNESCO was formed 62 years ago to assist in observing human rights and to promote cultural and educational cooperation and respect for the values and beliefs of all nations. The letter continues that freedom of speech and maintaining respect for all world cultures, including religious beliefs, play major roles in the fight against ignorance and misunderstanding.
“This provocative act of publishing insulting cartoons raises alarm. There is no doubt that the media is one of the major tools in implementing freedom of speech and as such possesses the ability to promote peace, justice and understating between cultures and religions or on the contrary advocate war, injustice and disunion,” reads part of the letter.
It also adds that the world is facing a transition in which art and literature are moving away from correct values and are instead instigating crisis and disrespect.
“I acknowledge that the main reason behind these kinds of acts is ignorance of correct cultural and religious values in the multifaceted world of today. True understanding will only take place with dialogue based on respect. I hope that UNESCO also feels concerned about such events and will play its role in establishing peace, security and international understanding. Iran also announces its readiness to cooperate with UNESCO,” the letter ends.