Pezeshkian says he favors diplomacy but vows not to cave in to coercion
Masoud Pezeshkian, one of the six candidates in the June 28 presidential election, says he is not against diplomacy and negotiations but will not cave in to coercion.
Pezeshkian, a former Minister of Health and a seasoned lawmaker who has also previously served as the deputy parliament speaker, made the remarks on a national TV program on Tuesday, as he outlined his foreign policy agenda if elected president.
“Diplomacy and negotiation do not amount to humiliation. We are not going to fight with anyone, unless they want to harm the honor and pride of our country. We will not cave in to coercion, which is against our dignity.”
The presidential candidate further noted that improving people's standard of living is among his main priorities, while emphasizing that foreign policy has a significant impact on people's lives.
Pezeshkian went on to say that internal unity could contribute to a successful foreign policy.
"Without a well-established and consensual foreign policy, we cannot advance and achieve the country's economic interests," he said.
The contender also emphasized that internal differences should be set aside to achieve progress. “Experts should help find solutions to foreign policy issues.”
“If someone was able to solve these issues, don’t blame him. Blaming others won’t solve any problems,” he said.
Iran will vote for a new president on June 28. The election was called after president Ebrahim Raeisi lost his life along with seven others on May 19, when a helicopter carrying them crashed into a mountainous area in northwest Iran amid foggy conditions.
Six candidates have been approved by the Iranian Constitutional Council, which is a 12-member body overseeing elections.
Campaigning officially started for Iran’s upcoming election on June 9, which includes five live, televised debates on the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), and will continue until 24 hours before the election.
The new administration, the 14th one after the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, will assume power in late June or early July and hold office for four years.
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