Achieving higher total fertility rates (TFR) and reducing maternal mortality is a high priority for the Islamic Republic, said Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Gholam Ali Khoshroo. “Given the recent demographic changes and the graying population of Iran, the country has placed higher total fertility rates on top of its agenda, along with the needs of the elderly by establishing a National Seniors Council,” he said at the 49th session of the Commission on Population and Development of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Stressing that family is an individual’s first and strongest mental and economic support, Khoshroo said “Family plays a significant role in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals,” ISNA reported. The session, focused on “strengthening the demographic evidence base for the post-2015 development agenda” concluded on April 15 in New York.
