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Iran's flamboyant president
Our "Read My Lips" series presents ten original quotes made by the featured individual(s) at the time specified in the answers. However, it is a "virtual" interview only — insofar as we have added questions in order to provide a better context to the thoughts expressed. |
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Read My Lips > Global Economy
Ahmadinejad Speaks |
By The Globalist |
| 1. |
What is a primary goal of your presidency? |
"As servant of the Iranian nation, I want to defend its independence, our national interests and the religion of Islam. I want to defend the interests of citizens both inside and outside the country."
(August 2005)
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| 2. |
Why have you chosen to pursue nuclear technology? |
"Nuclear energy is a result of the Iranian people's scientific development — and no one can block the way of a nation's scientific development."
(June
2005)
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| 3. |
Do the teachings of Islam conflict with the pursuit of nuclear weapons? |
"The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its previously and repeatedly declared position that in accordance with our religious principles, pursuit of nuclear weapons is prohibited."
(September 2005)
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| 4. |
Will Iran acquire nuclear weapons? |
"We don't need nuclear weapons. Nuclear weapons are pursued by those who want to solve everything by bullying everyone."
(January 2006)
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| 5. |
Will the international community impose sanctions on Iran? |
"You
can take this message back to the American people: It is
unfair to make China a scapegoat for structural problems
facing the U.S. economy."
(April 2006)
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| 6. |
Is there a role for wealthy Iranians in your government? |
"Parliament and government should fight against wealthy officials. Wealthy people should not have influence over senior officials because of their wealth. They should not impose their demands on the needs of the poor."
(May 2006)
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| 7. |
How do you view a woman's place in Iranian society? |
"Unfortunately, whenever there is talk of social corruption, fingers are pointed at women. Shouldn't men be blamed for the problems, too?"
(May 2006)
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| 8. |
Which change on the world stage is overdue? |
"How long do you think the world can be governed by the rhetoric of a handful of Western powers?"
(May 2006)
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| 9. |
Do you hold a longstanding grudge against the United States? |
"For eight years, Saddam's regime imposed a massive war of aggression and occupation on my people. Who, in fact, armed Saddam with these weapons?"
(September 2005)
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| 10. |
How will Iran contribute to global peace and security? |
"As the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, I assure you that my country will use everything in its power to contribute to global tranquility and peace based on the two maxims of spirituality and justice — as well as the equal rights of all peoples and nations."
(September 2005)
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