MEPs upset over EU representation at Iran's presidential inauguration

Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A wave of discontent has emerged among Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) regarding the European Union's decision to send a representative to the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's new President, Masoud Pezeshkian. While EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell will not attend, his deputy, Enrique Mora, will represent the EU at a diplomatic level, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from various MEPs. Polish MEP Adam Bielan, part of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, articulated his concerns in a letter to Borrell, stating that EU representation at the event would effectively legitimize the Iranian regime. Bielan emphasized that this decision contradicts the EU's stated values and principles, particularly in light of Iran's ongoing support for terrorism and its violations of human rights. He called for a prompt response to ensure that EU foreign policy aligns with its commitments to democracy and global security. Dutch MEP Bart Groothuis from the Liberal Renew group echoed Bielan's sentiments, labeling the EU's participation as "unacceptable." German Green MEP Hannah Neumann also expressed her frustration, indicating a desire for change in the EU's approach to Iran, particularly at the highest levels of leadership. The decision to send Mora follows a history of strained relations between the EU and Iran, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear program and human rights issues. The EU's diplomatic engagement has faced scrutiny, especially after Mora's previous representation at Ebrahim Raisi's inauguration in 2019, which was condemned by human rights activists.