Attention may be on Washington, but in New York, Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird warned the UN on Monday against falling for Iran’s public relations push.
“Sound bites do not remove threats to global security. Kind words, a smile and a charm offensive are not a substitute for real action,” he said, according to the Toronto Star.
Canada, considered one of Israel’s closest allies, shut down relations with Iran over a year ago, winning applause from Jerusalem.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird during the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly in the UN headquarters, New York, 29 September 2013. (photo credit: Kobi Gideon/GPO/Flash90)
Baird said he would be happy to reopen ties with Tehran, but once he sees real change from the regime.
“Nothing would make Canada more pleased than to see a change in Iran’s nuclear ambitions. A change to its terrible human rights record. And an end to Iran’s material support for terrorism,” he said.
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From the Liveblog of
Monday, September 30, 2013
