Iran’s New President Launches Charm Offensive
September 19, 2013
Iran’s new President Hassan Rouhani has launched what analysts are calling a charm offensive before next week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York. It is raising hopes there might be a fresh opportunity to negotiate with Iran over its controversial nuclear program.
Rouhani, in a flurry of recent comments, has created a strong impression that Iran is ready for serious diplomacy.
In the latest sign the newly elected leader is open to improving relations with the West, Rouhani told NBC News his country will never develop nuclear weapons. He also said he has the clout to make a deal with the West on the disputed nuclear program.
Rouhani said he wants to move quickly. “Regarding Iran’s nuclear issue, we want the swiftest resolution of this issue in the framework of international standards.”
The Iranian leader’s remarks came days before his first appearance as president on the world stage at the U.N.
Iranian expert Patrick Clawson said, “He is charging ahead with this charm offensive and he will probably be very effective at it because he knows how to reach Western audiences.”
In recent weeks Iran has sent greetings for the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, via Twitter.
It has transferred responsibility for nuclear negotiations from conservatives in the military to the Foreign Ministry, released a group of political prisoners and exchanged letters with U.S. President Barack Obama.
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