Simayi Sarraf, Minister of Science, Research, and Technology of the Islamic Republic of Iran, delivered a speech at the 43rd General Conference of UNESCO, addressing the Director-General and participants of the session:
> “It is a great honor to speak at the 43rd General Conference of UNESCO, this enduring institution of international cooperation, knowledge, and cultural exchange.
First, allow me to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Audrey Azoulay, the former Director-General of UNESCO, for her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to education for all, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the promotion of peace through knowledge.”
The Minister continued by congratulating Dr. Khaled El-Enany, the newly elected Director-General of UNESCO, stating:
> “Undoubtedly, your distinguished experience in the fields of culture and heritage will further strengthen UNESCO’s noble mission.”
Simayi added:
> “In recent years, many nations have endured immense suffering; yet none have been affected as deeply as those who bear the devastating consequences of conflict and aggression.”
Condemning the recent martyrdom of Iranian scientists in attacks by the Zionist regime, the Minister said:
> “These distinguished scholars, who devoted their lives to the advancement of knowledge, were silenced while serving humanity. Their loss is not only a national tragedy for Iran but also a wound upon the global scientific community. We collectively reaffirm the urgent need to protect scientists, thinkers, and researchers worldwide, for such acts of violence have no place in a world striving for peace and development.”
Simayi continued:
> “We also express our appreciation to Ms. Azoulay for her courageous and explicit condemnation of the assaults against Iranian journalists. Freedom of expression and the safety of media professionals are essential foundations for an informed and just society.
Despite unjust sanctions, Iran remains committed to the universal right to education, keeping its schools and universities open to thousands of Afghan students—providing them with safety, opportunity, and hope.”
The Minister further praised UNESCO’s forward-looking efforts in addressing the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies, stating:
> “UNESCO’s recent initiatives—such as the Recommendation on the Ethics of Neurotechnology and the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence—reflect a visionary approach ensuring that innovation is always guided by ethical responsibility, respect for privacy, and the preservation of human dignity.”
In conclusion, Simayi stated:
> “I would like to draw your attention to a culturally and ethically significant initiative: the Cyrus Charter, jointly proposed by Iran and Tajikistan, which stands as a universal symbol of fundamental human rights and cultural diversity.
This initiative is an invitation to renew our global commitment to tolerance, peace, and mutual respect—values deeply rooted in our shared human heritage.
We call upon all Member States to support this resolution as a timely reminder of our common ethical foundations.”
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