Tehran: President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the government has strictly followed the guidance of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, particularly emphasizing that if the Supreme Leader had directed the government to avoid negotiations, such talks would not have occurred.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, President Pezeshkian, during a meeting with senior officials of the Islamic Development Coordination Council, highlighted that the government's actions on negotiations were in alignment with the Leader's directives. He mentioned that the Leader had allowed the negotiation process to proceed, provided it had the backing of three-quarters of the Supreme National Security Council members.

President Pezeshkian revealed that 12 out of the 13 council members not only voted in favor of negotiations but also expressed strong support after thorough discussions. He praised the Iranian people's unity during recent challenges, noting that the public's support is a significant national asset. He countered assumptions by external actors who believed internal divisions would weaken Iran, pointing instead to widespread public solidarity.

He stressed the importance of maintaining national unity despite political differences, acknowledging that diverse expert opinions are intrinsic to policymaking. Officials, he insisted, should express their views candidly during decision-making processes but must adhere to the final decisions reached through legal channels.

Discussing Iran's economic prospects, Pezeshkian stated that the nation has protected its national interests amidst external pressures and maintained economic activity by bolstering strategic reserves and infrastructure through domestic efforts. He reiterated that dialogue and international engagement are permissible when they align with Iran's national interests and safeguard its rights, independence, and sovereignty.

Pezeshkian concluded by affirming the government's dedication to defending the Islamic Republic, the principles of the 1979 Revolution, and enhancing cooperation with neighboring and Islamic countries to foster regional stability and development.