Iran’s new president Pezeshkian outlines foreign policy vision

Following the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, Iran held peaceful and fair early elections, resulting in the election of Masoud Pezeshkian as the new president. In a message titled “My Message to the World,” Pezeshkian outlined his approach to foreign policy.

Pezeshkian emphasized his desire to establish balanced relationships with all nations, highlighting the importance of cooperation with neighboring countries to counteract U.S. influence in the region. He criticized the U.S. for attempting to pit regional states against one another and condemned Washington’s withdrawal from the nuclear deal.

He also strongly criticized the U.S. for the assassination of Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani, underscoring his commitment to strengthening Iran’s role and influence in the region. “I will defend Iran’s honor,” Pezeshkian stated.

Pezeshkian expressed his intent to resolve regional issues through enhanced economic relations with neighboring countries. He specifically mentioned:

We look forward to deepening our economic ties, strengthening commercial relations, encouraging joint investments, addressing common challenges, and progressing toward a regional framework for dialogue, confidence-building, and development with countries like Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and regional organizations.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian

The new president affirmed that China and Russia would remain key strategic partners for Iran, while also aiming to foster good relations with countries in the Global South, Africa, and Latin America.

Pezeshkian also highlighted the importance of normalizing relations with European countries, stressing that Iran does not aspire to develop nuclear weapons and advocating for a return to the nuclear agreement. He underscored the significance of dialogue with Europe and Iran’s commitment to a constructive approach in its relations with the West.