Iran’s President-elect Pledges More Conciliatory Approach
Iran’s president-elect Hassan Rouhani said today he will
name ministers from across the political spectrum, forming an inclusive cabinet
and a government of moderation.
“The future government must operate in the framework of
moderation...[and it] must avoid extremism, and this message is for everyone,”
Rouhani said in a speech carried live on state television.
“The next cabinet will be trans-factional... This
government is not obligated to any party or faction, and will work to choose
the most qualified people from all sides and factions, under conditions of
moderation and temperance.”
He also pledged a more conciliatory approach in
international and relations than the current government.
“Moderation in foreign policy is neither submission nor
antagonism, neither passivity nor confrontation. Moderation is effective and
constructive interaction with the world,” Rouhani said. “The Islamic Republic
of Iran, as a major regional power or the biggest regional power... must play
its role and for this we need moderation.”
Rouhani, who will take office in early August, said he
was dedicated to “mutual relaxation of tensions” with other countries.
File photo: Iran's presiden-elect Hassan Rouhani (AFP)
Hopefully, they will ease up on the Arab bedouin practice of chador (hejab) that has been thrust upon Iranian women. It serves no purpose and is an ignorant Arab practice and nothing to do with Islam even. Iranians need a bit of leeway in how they live their lives. Iran is a conservative society and no one is about to walk down Vali Asr in hot pants or mini-skirts after the excesses of the shah era when it was considered "modern" to copy the worst of western low class street wear. Since Ahmadinejad is now in the waiting room for the mahdi, perhaps Rohani can be more socially liberal.
ReplyDeleteIran is indeed a great power and should be self-confident to let its people blow off a little steam. The recent elections have shown that most Iranians are supportive of the hybrid system but need more social freedoms.