The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) issued a statement on Jan. 16, denouncing the external interference into internal Iranian affairs, singling out, in particular, the role of long-term unilateral sanctions against Iran in creating the economic conditions for the protests. “The SCO notes that unilateral sanction measures have had a significant negative impact on the country’s economic stability, led to a deterioration in living standards, and objectively constrained the ability of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran to implement measures aimed at ensuring the country’s socio-economic development,” it said.
“The SCO opposes interference in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the statement continued. “The Organization adheres to the principles of respect for sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states, and the non-use of force or threat of force in international relations. The SCO calls for a peaceful settlement of the current situation through political and diplomatic means.”
