Fed: Iran confirms govts fears of attending UN meeting:Shorten

AAP General News (Australia)
04-21-2009
Fed: Iran confirms govts fears of attending UN meeting:Shorten

Federal MP BILL SHORTEN says it's regrettable a United Nations anti-racism conference
has been marred by claims of anti-Semitism.

The federal government decided at the last minute to boycott this week's conference
in Geneva over fears it would be used as a platform to attack Israel.

Dozens of diplomats walked out during Iranian President MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD'S opening
speech after he accused Israel of being a totally racist regime.

Mr SHORTEN has told Sky News Australia hoped the conference wouldn't be an Israel bash
but AHMADINEJAD has confirmed fears.

Canada .. Israel .. Italy and the United States also chose not to participate in the conference.

AAP RTV sld/kms/ka

KEYWORD: UN RACISM SHORTEN (CANBERRA)

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