Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that, just as Iran has previously accepted the most rigorous inspection regime on its nuclear activities, the country is now ready for constructive engagement. However, he emphasized that this does not mean relinquishing the rights of the Iranian people.
“We are ready for dialogue; we do not seek war. But if aggression is repeated, our response will be firm.”
At the credential presentation ceremony of the new French ambassador, Pierre Cochard, the President wished him success in promoting bilateral cooperation based on mutual respect and interaction with the international community.
The President noted that the Islamic Republic of Iran is pursuing internal unity and engagement with the world. However, he said, some Western countries are disrupting this process through fabricated propaganda and baseless accusations that Iran is seeking to build nuclear weapons.
He continued: “We demand our rights within the framework of international law and have remained committed to its requirements. Just as we previously accepted the most rigorous monitoring systems for our nuclear activities, we are now also prepared to engage in this field.”
He added: “However, we will not relinquish the rights of our people.”
The new French ambassador expressed his condolences over the killing of Iranian citizens in the recent terrorist attack in Zahedan, Sistan and Baluchestan Province. He stated: “France is committed to maintaining the path of dialogue and diplomacy and to building trust. In line with this goal, we did not close our embassy in Tehran even during the 12-day war.”
Pierre Cochard also highlighted the potential and diverse areas for cooperation between the two countries. He said that France is interested in expanding engagement with Iran:
“France believes that dialogue is the only way to resolve disputes regarding the nuclear issue. We believe that diplomacy should be given time.”
