Cecilia Sala was arrested for "violating the laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran" .
For the first time, Tehran confirms the arrest of the Italian journalist, and does so by issuing a note from the General Department of Foreign Media of the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Orientation of Iran.
"The Italian citizen - it reads - arrived in Iran on December 13 with a journalist visa and was arrested on the 19th for violating the law of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her case is under investigation. The arrest was carried out in accordance with current legislation and the Italian embassy was informed. She was granted consular access and telephone contact with her family."
"The ministry's policy - it is specified - has always been to welcome visits and legal activities of foreign journalists, increase the number of foreign media in the country and preserve their legal rights ."
The precise reason why Sala would have violated the laws of the country is not clarified: "A file has been opened on the Italian citizen, and investigations are currently underway. Her arrest occurred in accordance with current legislation. Further details will be provided if the judiciary deems it necessary", the press release simply reiterates.
Meanwhile, negotiations continue at a diplomatic level and an exchange with the Iranian prisoner wanted by the USA and arrested in Malpensa is being considered.
(Unioneonline/L)
