SAEDNEWS: In a near‑unanimous vote, Tehran’s legislature approved the general outline of sweeping legislation to streamline services and expand opportunities for millions of Iranians living abroad.
According to Saed News, Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly approved the general outline of the “Bill on Supporting Iranians Living Abroad” on Sunday with 209 votes in favor, nine against and eight abstentions. Lawmakers immediately proceeded to scrutinize the bill’s detailed provisions, which aim to bolster legal protections, expedite consular procedures and foster economic, academic and cultural ties with expatriate communities.
Backers underscored the diaspora’s steadfast solidarity during recent upheavals. A representative from Zanjan lauded expatriates for “standing by the Armed Forces and the people of Iran” throughout the 12‑day conflict, while an MP from Esfarayen hailed the legislation as “a necessary and timely response” to the unity displayed worldwide. Both argued that the measure would reinforce the emotional bond between Iranians at home and abroad, deterring foreign interference.
Abbas Moghtadaei, deputy chair of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, noted that years of expert planning underpin the bill. Once finalised, executive bylaws must be drafted within three months to address elite repatriation, facilitate capital transfers, establish investment desks in embassies and promote Iranian‑Islamic identity overseas.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf described the legislation as “important and impactful,” urging swift implementation to resolve longstanding judicial, travel and consular challenges faced by expatriates. With one of West Asia’s largest diaspora communities—spanning Europe, North America and neighbouring states—the bill reflects Tehran’s determination to translate diaspora loyalty into tangible benefits and mutual reinforcement of national cohesion.
