Prince Reza Pahlavi asks Iranian-origin Norwegian Parliament Chair to ‘Continue Defending Freedom-Thirsty Compatriots’

Prince Reza Pahlavi on Thursday, December 2, in a message published on his social media accounts, while expressing satisfaction with Masoud Gharakhanlu’s election as Chair of the Norwegian Parliament, cited his perseverance as a brilliant example for Iranians.

In this message, he wrote: “Undoubtedly, like many of our fellow countrymen who have been forced to leave Iran, you also suffered as a refugee in your new homeland. Nevertheless, the determination and perseverance you have demonstrated to reach the highest position of democratic leadership in your host country is commendable.”

Prince Reza Pahlavi, expressing hope that Mr. Gharakhanlu “will continue to defend compatriots who thirst for freedom and democracy,” emphasized: “Your election is an unparalleled opportunity for cooperation and solidarity with the Iranian nation in their struggle for freedom. I look forward to meeting with you in person in the near future.”

Masoud Gharakhanlu, an Iranian-origin politician who immigrated to Norway in childhood, was elected as Chair of Parliament of this northern European country last week.

He was born in Tehran in 1982 and immigrated to Norway with his family at the age of five, during the eight-year Iran-Iraq War.

Mr. Gharakhanlu has stated that he wants to use this position to strengthen democracy, improve people’s welfare, gender equality, and civil freedoms in Norway.

Norway’s Prime Minister praised the fact that an immigrant was able to become Chair of Parliament and said “I know Masoud is a sincere and experienced politician.”

Source: Voice of America