Iran calls for dialogue between Ecuador and Mexico following embassy raid

April 7, 2024 - 22:23

TEHRAN - Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani has urged the states of Ecuador and Mexico to refrain from escalating tensions and resolve their differences through diplomatic dialogue.

Kanaani emphasized the essentiality of respecting diplomatic immunity and ensuring the security of diplomatic and consular premises.

Expressing concern over the recent raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito, Kanaani highlighted the vital role of host governments in safeguarding the inviolability of diplomatic facilities. He called for constructive discussions between Ecuador and Mexico to address the current discord.

The tensions between Ecuador and Mexico escalated when Ecuadorian security officials conducted a late-night operation at the Mexican embassy, resulting in the arrest of former Vice President Jorge Glas, who had sought refuge at the embassy since a warrant was issued for his arrest in December.

In response to the incident, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador decided to sever diplomatic relations with Ecuador, condemning the raid as a severe breach of international law and Mexico's sovereignty.

President Obrador defended Glas's presence at the embassy, stating that he was a refugee seeking asylum due to the persecution and harassment he faced in his home country. However, Ecuadorian authorities argued that Glas, convicted twice for corruption, was not eligible for political asylum as he was a criminal under an enforceable sentence with an active arrest warrant.

The Ecuadorian presidency officially confirmed Glas's arrest, rejecting any claims of political persecution and affirming the legal grounds for his apprehension. The situation remains tense as Ecuador and Mexico navigate the diplomatic fallout from this incident.
 

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