Ayatollah Rafsanjani: Iran serious to prove allegations about nuclear program were political

Chairman of Expediency Council Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani said on Sunday that Iran is serious to prove the allegations about nuclear program were politically-motivated, calling for the western governments to go ahead with confidence-building.

He made the remarks in a meeting with visiting Singaporean Parliament Speaker Halimeh Yacob.

Ayatollah Rafsanjani said he was pleased with progress of the talks between Iran and Group 5+1.

ˈWe have reached a sensitive juncture in the negotiations and the parties should be determined to resolve the issues,ˈ Rafsanjani said.

Describing Singapore as a young and advanced country, Rafsanjani added that peaceful coexistence of followers of various religions is indicative of correct policy of the officials to counter internal tensions.

Iran and Singapore have longstanding cultural and historical affinities and extensive capacity to develop economic cooperation, Rafsanjani said.

He said that the officials should strive for materializing the capacities.

Yacob, for her part, said that bilateral ties have a record of 40 years, calling for and diplomatic shuttle to develop economic cooperation.

Exchange of visits by the officials is not sufficient; rather the two nations should exchange visits, she said.

Referring to Iranˈs history and civilization, Yacob said, ˈWe are keen on promoting bilateral ties at the parliamentary level.ˈ

The Speaker of Singapore Parliament also invited Rafsanjani to visit Singapore.