We do not welcome confrontation

02 July 2012 | 15:09 Code : 1903581 From Other Media

Excerpts of ISNA’s Interview with Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi

1- I have always reiterated that Iran’s nuclear dossier will conclude to the Islamic Republic’s advantage. I have faith in God’s grace and, with all the information at my disposal, I believe that there is no other option but to seek a diplomatic and political solution to Iran’s nuclear issue. The path may have been bumpy, but in general I believe that we are moving in the direction of solving this matter, and the other parties also have no other option but to reach an understanding with Iran. Otherwise, the next option would be confrontation instead of dialogue. And I don’t think that anyone in their right mind would seek confrontation, considering the region’s developments.

2- Iran will never stop defending its rights and sovereignty and everyone must know that the Iranian people and its regime are quite awake and aware. We have, several times, reiterated that we seek dialogue, not confrontation. But if the other side decides to act irrationally, they must know that the Islamic Republic of Iran will defend its existence, like during the era of the imposed war. Of course my belief is that we will not reach that point. Regional and international developments and the US election are issues that can be analyzed in relation with each other. These developments, sometimes rapidly and sometimes slowly, will impact on the issues.

3- Holding the NAM Summit in Iran has no relation to bilateral issues. Iran is the host of this summit and, based on its obligations and the committee which follows these issues in New York, it invites all member countries to attend.

4- I had telephone conversations with Mr. Kofi Annan, both before and after the Geneva Conference, during which I transmitted Iran’s views on this matter. I have also discussed our positions with my Russian counterpart, declaring that “we are completely against foreign intervention in the internal affairs of countries.” Unfortunately, interventions are being transformed into a trend in the international atmosphere, followed very selfishly by certain powers. I told Mr. Annan that while Iran wants the demands of Syrians to be met by the government of this country, it emphasizes the point that the government should sit down and talk with the opposition and form a national unity government. If the decision is made to have change in the country, then it must be done via a democratic path with elections and in a natural way. The issue of Syria must be solved with a Syrian-Syrian solution and international meetings can prepare the ground for gathering different factions together in Syria, instead of discussing intervention in its internal affairs. Mr. Annan has indicated his willingness to hold a meeting with me in the near future. This meeting will take place either during his visit to Tehran or my visit to Geneva.