Iran’s FM Appoints New Spokesman

(FNA)- The Iranian foreign ministry appointed a new spokesman as Ramin Mehman-Parast resigned to run for president.

Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi appointed his deputy for Asia-Pacific Affairs Seyed Abbas Araqchi as new spokesman to replace Mehman-Parast. Salehi announced that Araqchi will retain his previous position.

In his letter of resignation to Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi, Mehman-Parast said that he was ready to step down as spokesman.

Mehman-Parast has registered his name as a presidential hopeful for the June presidential election.

The 11th presidential election will take place on June 14, 2013. Registration of candidates started on May 7 and finished at 6 pm on Saturday.

The president of Iran is elected for a four-year term in a national election and the Guardian Council vets the candidates for qualifications.