Presidential hopeful Velayati discusses views on nuclear program

Iranian presidential hopeful Ali-Akbar Velayati says Iran has the ability to continue its peaceful nuclear energy program and improve its international ties at the same time.
Velayati, who is a member of the principlist Coalition of Three, reaffirmed Iran’s inalienable right to have peaceful nuclear energy, based on the

The senior Iranian official, who currently serves as a senior advisor to The Leader of Islamic Ummah and Oppresed People Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei, also said that issues of dispute can be negotiated and his government will be able to proceed with the nuclear energy program while protecting its achievements.

The United States, Israel, and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.

Iran rejects the allegation, arguing that as a committed signatory to the NPT and a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it has the right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

The Principlist candidate also touched on the economic situation. He believes tackling unemployment and inflation needs long-term planning.

The Coalition of Three also includes Tehran Mayor Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf, and lawmaker Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel.

Velayati had earlier said economic prosperity would not be possible unless Iran gains self-sufficiency in agricultural and industrial fields.

Iran’s 11th presidential election will be held on June 14, and presidential hopefuls can register from May 7 to 11.

The president of Iran is elected for a four-year term in a national election after the Guardian Council vets hopefuls for qualifications.