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On June 30, at the Free Iran 2024 World Summit<\/a> in Paris, Ricardo da Piedade Abreu Serr\u00e3o Santos, former Minister of Maritime Affairs of Portugal, delivered a compelling speech highlighting the urgent and critical situation in Iran. Santos criticized the Iranian regime’s manipulation of elections, which falsely presented a fa\u00e7ade of democracy, and called out the international supporters who supported this deception.<\/p>\n Santos emphasized the role of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), which has been actively opposing the regime for 43 years, presenting a viable and democratic alternative. He praised Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan<\/a> as a beacon of hope and a clear roadmap for a free and democratic Iran.<\/p>\n Drawing from his experience as an academic and politician, Santos underscored the importance of fundamental freedoms such as free speech, free press, and freedom of religion, which are severely suppressed in Iran. He highlighted the specific challenges faced by women in academia, who endure harassment, travel restrictions, and isolation from the global academic community.<\/p>\n Santos commended the NCRI\u2019s dedication to gender equality, noting that over 60% of its members are women. He praised Rajavi\u2019s Ten-Point Plan for its commitment to full gender equality across all domains and its efforts to eliminate discrimination and exploitation of women.<\/p>\n The full text of former Minister Santos\u2019s speech follows:<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Ladies and gentlemen, dear Madame Maryam Rajavi, I feel it is important to highlight the critical and urgent situation in Iran, where manipulated elections give the false impression of democracy. This deception is clear to all, including the regime’s international supporters, some of whom are ashamed accomplices. The Iranian regime maintains its power by perpetuating the myth that no alternative exists. This is clearly a narcissist mullah deception. This narrative is powerfully challenged by those who are represented here.<\/p>\n The National Council of Resistance of Iran has been actively opposing the regime for 43 years, offering a democratic and viable alternative. Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan exemplifies strong leadership and a commitment to democratic principles, providing a clear roadmap for a free and democratic Iran. This is a beacon of hope in the current situation.<\/p>\n Former Minister Santos: "The NCRI is at the forefront of resistance against the regime, risking much in their fight. Mrs. Rajavi is dedicated to democratic values, offering a legitimate alternative to the current regime."#FreeIran2024<\/a>https:\/\/t.co\/F6tr008KU8<\/a><\/p>\n — NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) June 30, 2024<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n