Masoud Pezeshkian was officially inaugurated as Iran’s new president on Sunday in a ceremony attended by diplomats and Iran’s political elite. In his inaugural address, Pezeshkian emphasizedemphasized the need for constructive engagement with Western countries, viewing it as crucial for curbing inflation and achieving economic growth in Tehran. He also pledged to make several cabinet appointments, including a new foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, in the coming days.
During the ceremony, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, delivered a speech that outlined the country’s foreign policy priorities. He expressed a strong desire to maintain close ties with countries that had supported Iran during periods of sanctions. However, he also left the door open for improved relations with European powers, should they modify their behavior. This speech is significant as it sets the tone for the new president’s foreign policy agenda.
Pezeshkian, a reformist, appointed Mohammad Reza Aref, a close ally of the former president, as his first vice president, signalling a commitment to unity within Iran’s political landscape. Despite facing a right-wing parliament, Pezeshkian emphasizesemphasizes political unity and constructive change.
The new president’s term is expected to be marked by significant challenges, both internal and external. These include environmental concerns, lack of internal electricity generation capacity, and threats from neighbouring countries. Additionally, Pezeshkian stressed the importance of obtaining relief from US sanctions and getting off the blacklist of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as essential for Iran’s economic growth. This underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action.
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The inaugural address also highlighted the new president’s pledge to reopen diplomatic negotiations with the West over Iran’s nuclear program. This is a significant shift in Iran’s foreign policy after more than a year of stalled negotiations. The tensions surrounding Iran’s relationship with Western sanctions will likely be a significant point of contention during Pezeshkian’s presidency, but this pledge signals a potential thaw in relations.
Experts believe that Iran’s election paves the way for a coordinated Western response, potentially leading to improved relations and viable pathways for economic relief. This is contingent on Iran’s willingness to roll back its nuclear program. The inauguration signals a potential for less internal censorship and a fresh approach to Iran’s economy, fostering a sense of hope and optimism.
