TEHRAN, July 27 (Mehr News Agency) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki has asked the members of the Non-Aligned Movement to back Iran's bid for a UN Security Council seat in the upcoming vote at the United Nations.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran, as an active member of the Non-Aligned Movement, has been a pioneer in the campaign against prejudices in the international order restricting the freedom, independence, and progress of nations," Mottaki said on Sunday at the opening ceremony of the 15th meeting of Non-Aligned Movement foreign ministers, which is currently underway in Tehran.

Iran's efforts to develop technology for civilian nuclear energy and the major powers' displeasure over this action are some of the main reasons for this NAM meeting, along with the efforts to maintain the independence and freedom of the member states and thwart attempts to dominate them and keep them underdeveloped, he added.

"The enemies of nations' peace, freedom and independence know that Iran's access to this important source of energy can uplift our country in the scientific and economic spheres. So they spare no effort to ensure its failure... For years they have accused us of trying to develop nuclear weapons while they and their allies are armed with the most devastating weapons," Mottaki said.

He went on to say that Iran has never bowed to these threats and this pressure and will never do so and calls on all NAM members and other friendly nations to support it.

"Iran has been nominated for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. I hope that with your affirmative vote... a positive reform of the Security Council's performance is brought about," Mottaki added.

He also asked NAM members to continue their support of the Palestinian nation's efforts to gain their independence and freedom.

... Payvand News - 07/28/08 ... --