Iran's President Mohammad Khatami in Tehran Sunday stressed the importance and high position of free elections in a democratic system and said well-conducted elections could manifest the determination, will, dignity and identity of a nation.
He made the remarks in a gathering of governors and top officials of the Interior Ministry in the capital Sunday.
He further commented that belief in a democratic system meant attaching the highest importance to the issue of elections, <i>IRNA</i> reported.
Relating to the present situation of Iranian society, which is facing many domestic and foreign threats, Khatami also stressed the need for holding the upcoming elections in the most proper way possible and said such elections could be conducted only in a safe and secure society, the news agency said. He said all should currently strive to eliminate threats and to at least try to minimize them.
Referring to the open threats of certain powers against Iran, he said anyone thinking of attacking Iran will receive more damage itself.
Given the sensitivity of the upcoming elections, the Iranian leader expressed his idea that a massive participation of people will further consolidate the foundations of the Islamic system and make the hollow dreams of the enemies vanish.
