Pierre Poilievre invites exiled Iranian prince Reza Pahlavi to Canada

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has extended an invitation to Reza Pahlavi, the exiled former crown prince of Iran, to visit Canada. Poilievre also announced plans to meet with Pahlavi virtually.

Speaking at a “Persian Town Hall” in British Columbia, Poilievre stated the meeting would serve as an opportunity to discuss democracy and the safety of the Iranian diaspora. He clarified that he is not explicitly endorsing Pahlavi, noting, “It is not the role of the Canadians or any foreign government to tell Iranians who should run their country, but there should be a free and democratic Iran that is in the hands of the Iranian people.”

Pahlavi, who resides in the Washington area, advocates for a transition to democratic elections in Iran. While some supporters view him as a unifying figure for a democratic transition, critics argue he lacks a viable governance platform and point to his father's former rule as a western-backed dictatorship.