On August 3, Hassan Rouhani took office as Iran’s new president at a ceremony in Tehran. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei endorsed Rouhani’s victory in front of political, military and religious leaders. The new president took the oath of office before parliament and foreign dignitaries on August 4. The following are excerpts from Rouhani's remarks at the two ceremonies.
August 3
"Moderation does not mean deviating from principles and it is not conservatism in the face of change and development. Moderation ... is an active and patient approach in society in order to be distant from the abyss of extremism.
"In the international arena we will also take new steps to promote the Iranian nation towards securing national interests and removing sanctions. Although there are many limitations, the future is bright and promising.
"The orientation of the government is Iran's economic salvation, constructive interaction with the world, and a restoration of morality."
"In the international arena we will also take new steps to promote the Iranian nation towards securing national interests and removing sanctions. Although there are many limitations, the future is bright and promising.
"The orientation of the government is Iran's economic salvation, constructive interaction with the world, and a restoration of morality."
August 4
“All those people who voted for me and those who voted for others or even those who did not attend the polling stations — everyone. They are all Iranian citizens and they enjoy equal citizens’ rights. So the government of hope and prudence feels obliged to carry out the lawful demands of all of the people.
“People want change, development, and improvement. People don't want poverty and discrimination… The fight against corruption and discrimination will be one of the key priorities of the government. All government bodies, agencies, and officials should work together to begin a serious campaign against corruption and inequality.
“I say candidly that if you [the West] want a proper response, speak to Iran not with the language of sanctions but with the language of respect… The only way for interaction with Iran is dialog on equal footing, mutual confidence-building, mutual respect and reduction of hostilities.
“The Islamic Republic seeks peace and stability in the region. Iran is the harbor of stability in this tumultuous region. We do not seek to change borders and governments."
“People want change, development, and improvement. People don't want poverty and discrimination… The fight against corruption and discrimination will be one of the key priorities of the government. All government bodies, agencies, and officials should work together to begin a serious campaign against corruption and inequality.
“I say candidly that if you [the West] want a proper response, speak to Iran not with the language of sanctions but with the language of respect… The only way for interaction with Iran is dialog on equal footing, mutual confidence-building, mutual respect and reduction of hostilities.
“The Islamic Republic seeks peace and stability in the region. Iran is the harbor of stability in this tumultuous region. We do not seek to change borders and governments."
Photo credit: @HassanRouhani via Twitter