TED O’BRIEN MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
MEMBER FOR FAIRFAX
MEDIA RELEASE
COALITION INVITES REZA PAHLAVI TO AUSTRALIA
The Coalition has formally invited prominent Iranian opposition figure and former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi to visit Australia, following significant calls from Australia’s Iranian diaspora.
Senior Coalition MPs and Senators will meet virtually with Mr Pahlavi in coming weeks to discuss the situation in Iran, the aspirations of the Iranian people and his advocacy for a democratic transition to a secular Iran.
Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs Ted O’Brien said the Coalition was responding to Iranian-Australians who want their voices heard.
“For decades, the Iranian people have suffered under a brutal terrorist regime that represses its own citizens, exports terror abroad and denies its people basic freedoms.”
“Many Iranian-Australians look to Mr Pahlavi as an important voice of hope for a different future and the Coalition believes those calls for engagement deserve to be heard.”
Mr Pahlavi has advocated for a democratic transition to a secular Iran based on human rights, equality and freedom for people of every faith and background.
Mr O’Brien said engagement with Mr Pahlavi did not amount to Australia choosing Iran’s future leadership.
“Iran’s future belongs to the Iranian people. It is not for Australia to determine who should lead Iran or what form its future government should take.”
“But we should be prepared to listen to credible voices advocating for a peaceful and democratic alternative to the regime in Tehran.”
Mr O’Brien said engagement with Iranian-Australians formed part of the Coalition’s broader engagement with diaspora communities, recognising that Australians should feel safe and respected regardless of conflict or instability in their country of origin.
“Strong social cohesion and national unity at home provide an important foundation for how Australia engages with the world which is just another reason this visit would be so significant locally.”
“If Mr Pahlavi accepts the Coalition’s invitation to visit Australia, we hope he will have the opportunity to meet with parliamentarians from across the political spectrum at Australian Parliament House, as well as members of the Iranian-Australian community across Australia.
The virtual meeting is being organised by Mr O’Brien and Mr Pahlavi and is expected to take place over coming weeks.
