VIENNA (Dispatches) — Iran and nine other countries have condemned unilateral sanctions and coercive measures imposed by Western nations, calling them violations of the UN Charter and an infringement on national sovereignty.

In a joint statement at the 53rd session of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the countries stressed that such sanctions undermine the ability of nations, particularly developing ones, to meet their sustainable development goals.

The statement was signed by Iran, Russia, China, Belarus, Cuba, North Korea, Nicaragua, Palestine, Sudan, and Venezuela. It highlighted the negative impact of these measures on the global energy market, as well as key industries such as food, chemicals, and heavy industries. 

The signatories warned that unilateral sanctions weaken multilateralism and the principle of international cooperation, which are fundamental to the United Nations.

The countries called the sanctions “illegitimate, illegal, and contrary to international law.” They argued that these measures constitute interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states and obstruct economic and social progress.

“The imposition of such measures hampers the development of affected countries,” the statement said. The countries urged the international community to condemn these actions and called for legal steps to counter their extraterritorial effects.

In addition to condemning sanctions, the signatories pledged to work towards creating open, fair, and non-discriminatory energy markets. 

They also called for collective efforts to combat protectionism and discriminatory measures that harm global trade. The countries urged UNIDO to take steps to reduce the negative impact of sanctions on achieving

 sustainable development goals, especially in the energy sector.
Iran has long been subjected to heavy U.S. and European Union sanctions, largely due to its nuclear program. While the sanctions have created economic challenges, Iran has used them to push for greater self-sufficiency and innovation in domestic industries.
In a statement, Iran criticized the latest round of U.S. sanctions, describing them as a reflection of Washington’s “hostility” toward the country. Despite these challenges, Iran has focused on advancing its high-tech industries and reducing its reliance on foreign assistance.
The statement concluded by urging UNIDO member states to reject unilateral sanctions and take strong action to defend the sovereignty of nations. The signatories called for a collective response to counter these “destructive” measures and to uphold the principles of international law.
As the debate over unilateral sanctions intensifies, Iran and its allies continue to advocate for multilateral solutions to address global challenges and promote sustainable development.