Press Release “Irans peaceful space activities”

Press Release “Irans peaceful space activities”

Launching scientific satellites which are in the framework of the initial steps of the space activities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, unfortunately has become an excuse for the US and very small number of countries to scratch the face of Iran. These activities are not in violation of UN Resolutions, yet such resolutions allow highly vulnerable countries to earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters to apply the spatial industry for reducing unexpected consequences.
The launch of the scientific satellite called "Payam" (Message) on January 15, 2019, and following programs of launching two satellites under the names of "Doosty" (Frindship) and "Bahman 40", initial steps of the space activities of Iran, are legal and in accordance with internationally accepted regulations. According to the Principles Governing Outer Space (1967), the maternal convention in the field of space activities, any use of outer space should be in the interests of all countries, regardless of being developed or developing countries. The Islamic Republic of Iran, as one of the 24 founding members of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPOS), believes that the aerospace, as the common heritage of humanity, must be exclusively for peaceful purposes and based on interests of the present and future generations of all nations. 
Iran, as a country where 90% of its areas are affected by earthquakes and 80% of its population, are at risk of flood, necessarily needs the application of the spatial industry and has always tried to use technologies and data Satellites to reduce or modify unexpected consequences and natural disasters. Therefore, the Islamic Republic of Iran strongly opposes any attempt to monopolize space and spatial technologies by specific countries and insists that its fundamental rights for free access to outer space, based on the principles of equality, non-discriminatory and non-interference in exclusively peaceful use, should be respected by all countries and regional and international institutions.
Despite the years of imposing illicit and cruel sanctions, the Islamic Republic of Iran has achieved indigenous knowledge based on efforts and perseverance of its youth scientists. As it has been repeatedly stated, this knowledge and ability are purely scientific and technological and its purpose is to meet the country's main requirements on the way to development and economic progress. It also should be emphasized that these capabilities are civilian in nature and in no way violate the international regulations. Despite the unfair and false interpretations of certain powers that promote this practical step of Iran contrary to UNSCR 2231, we believe that all nations have the right to use and enjoy this knowledge and technology.