Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Iran

Iran's New President Vows To Resist Foreign Pressure

Mahmud Ahmadinejad (file photo)

6 August 2005 (RFE/RL) -- Iran's new hard-line president took office today vowing not to give in to foreign pressure amid a looming international crisis over Tehran's nuclear program.

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August 06, 2005

President Mahmud Ahmadinejad, speaking after being sworn in, pledged to defend Islam and Iran's independence.

He did not directly mention the controversy over Iran's nuclear program but said the Iranian people "do not tolerate force."

"We are logical and respect international rules, but will not give in to those who want to violate our rights," Ahmadinejad said.

Earlier, senior Iranian officials said the latest EU offer of trade and security incentives to Iran in exchange for Iran agreeing not to produce nuclear fuel was "unacceptable". EU members Britain, France, and Germany have been negotiating with Iran for two years now trying to defuse the crisis over Iran's nuclear program.

Diplomats say an Iranian rejection of the EU offer may lead to punitive action by the UN Security Council.

The UN's International Atomic Energy Agency is due to meet on 9 August to discuss the matter.

(compiled from agency reports)

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