The non-governmental Center for Peace and Environment (CPE) held its annual awards ceremony in Tehran last night. Former President Seyed Mohammad Khatami who had taken part in the previous years was not available. After announcing his candidacy for the up-coming Presidential elections, he has started his provincial visits and yesterday he began a 3-day trip to visit people in Fars, Bushehr and Kohkilouye Boyerahmad three important provinces of Iran. Many predict that the provincial visits of Khatami will create a favorable atmosphere for the reform campaign in Iran. However, pressures and smearing campaigns have also been underway against him during these days and this has created more popularity for Khatami among the young people. His campaign trail is worth following these days.
In the awards ceremony Professor Mohammad Soltanieh was awarded the Prominent Researcher Award for 35 years of devoted research work in the field of air pollution and climate change. Dr. Soltanieh was also a member of the leading team of scholars of the IPCC , the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change that received the Noble Peace prize in 2008.
A provincial activist from Gorgan and an NGO from Azerbaijan were also recognized by the Board of Referees for their significant activities in this field. Two environmental journalists also received a prize for their efforts in reporting on environmental issues.
I spoke on the importance of recognizing the work of environmental activists and criticised the government for its lack of insight and action for the environmental cause. I called upon NGOs and media to question Presidential candidates about their environmental policies and to evaluate candidates on the basis of their perspectives and policies on sustainable development.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Bakeri Brothers
The people of my generation who lived through the 8 year war that Saddam imposed on Iran can catch the feeling of what I am about to say. Younger generations and those living abroad might feel the distance in time and place. Its now likened to a myth for many. They ask: could such noble and altruistic people really have existed ?
Last night I attended an important commemoration ceremony for two martyrs who were courageous commanders during the war. The Bakeri brothers, Hamid and Mehdi were both renown for their leadership during the different stages of the war and their unrivalled bravery. The speaker at this session was Eng. Mir Hossein Mousavi the nation's Prime Minister at that time(1983-1989). Mr. Mousavi has refrained from appearing in public for the past two decades. But he is back now, and this is very meaningful in the dire political circumstances we face. Rumours say he might also run for Presidency. Mr. Khatami and many other high level political figures from the reformist camp attended as well. He spoke about the relevancy of the concept of martyrdom and the last wills of these martyrs for young people of this generation. He read parts of the will: We consider martyrdom as a great salvation from God and reserved for His dearest people....
He spoke on the importance of bridging the gaps with the youth who have not witnessed those days.
I think the concept of martyrdom in Islamic tradition is quite fascinating since it has proved to be a major mobilizing power for defending the faith in face of devastating circumstances such as the Crusades or in Palestine and the 8 year aggression of Saddam. The legacy of Imam Hossein remains as the major inspirational motive in this regard. It exhibits a universal message of sacrifice for Truth , Righteousness and ultimately the Creator.
There is alot of misunderstanding and abuse of this concept during our era. Some take the aspiration for martyrdom to be synonymous with suicide or some have abused the concept to promote violence and terrorism like Taliban and related organizations. Others have politicised the concept in favor of their particular political tendency.
Actually, the intention involved is the defining line. Mehdi and Hamid Bakeri like thousands of Iranian martyrs fought for freedom, independence and dignity for Iran . They however, set an example worldwide for all those who have chosen not to remain indifferent.
Last night I attended an important commemoration ceremony for two martyrs who were courageous commanders during the war. The Bakeri brothers, Hamid and Mehdi were both renown for their leadership during the different stages of the war and their unrivalled bravery. The speaker at this session was Eng. Mir Hossein Mousavi the nation's Prime Minister at that time(1983-1989). Mr. Mousavi has refrained from appearing in public for the past two decades. But he is back now, and this is very meaningful in the dire political circumstances we face. Rumours say he might also run for Presidency. Mr. Khatami and many other high level political figures from the reformist camp attended as well. He spoke about the relevancy of the concept of martyrdom and the last wills of these martyrs for young people of this generation. He read parts of the will: We consider martyrdom as a great salvation from God and reserved for His dearest people....
He spoke on the importance of bridging the gaps with the youth who have not witnessed those days.
I think the concept of martyrdom in Islamic tradition is quite fascinating since it has proved to be a major mobilizing power for defending the faith in face of devastating circumstances such as the Crusades or in Palestine and the 8 year aggression of Saddam. The legacy of Imam Hossein remains as the major inspirational motive in this regard. It exhibits a universal message of sacrifice for Truth , Righteousness and ultimately the Creator.
There is alot of misunderstanding and abuse of this concept during our era. Some take the aspiration for martyrdom to be synonymous with suicide or some have abused the concept to promote violence and terrorism like Taliban and related organizations. Others have politicised the concept in favor of their particular political tendency.
Actually, the intention involved is the defining line. Mehdi and Hamid Bakeri like thousands of Iranian martyrs fought for freedom, independence and dignity for Iran . They however, set an example worldwide for all those who have chosen not to remain indifferent.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Joseph, The TV Series in Iran
Iranians, are now for the past few months ,entertained every Friday night with a new TV series on Joseph, the Prophet. Created according to the Quranic tradition and benefiting from common roots from Judaic and Torah teachings, the film is an attractive entity by all means.
Joseph, the son of Jacob , the son of Isac, the son of Abraham is the star of the film. Betrayed by his jealous brothers Joseph is brought up far from his family by an Egyptian aristocrat who realizes his talents and capabilities. His wife however, falls in love with Joseph and facing his refusal to betray her husband, she plots to throw him in prison for eight years. Known as Juzarsif among the Egyptians , he later becomes a key minister and advisor to the Pharoh and saves Egypt during eight years of drought.
This Quranic narration is one of the most attractive and enlightening stories of the Prophetic tradition and there is an analogy made in Islamic and Iranian literature and mysticism between the separation of Joseph from his father and the separation of the spirit from its creator. But more interesting is the analogy with the occultation of the last Imam, Mahdi. We are waiting , as Jacob was, for the appearance of the Saviour . Its also interesting to note that a film about the Children of Israel ,or Jacob is being screened on national TV at a time when Iran is accused of having an anti-Semitic approach at the global stage.
Iranian film makers have produced several successful series on Quranic tradition and Islamic history during recent years. The Virgin Mary and the Men of Angelos were films both based on narrations from the Quran ,yet related to Christian belief. It is surprising for many Christians and Jews to learn that the Holy Quran presents such detailed and vivid narrations related to their faith so firmly and proudly without any prejudice.
The direction of the film is criticised by many viewers, I also feel there are alot of weaknesses in the way Mr. Salahshour has presented the dialogues and the chain of events. The Director is also renown for his sympathy and support for the policies and line of thought of President Ahmadinejad and some people believe he is trying to draw an analogy between the President's economic plans and Joseph's policies as a propaganda strategy for the current government. We have fallen in the habit of waiting for text messages joking about Joseph and Ahmadinejad once every week.
Joseph, the son of Jacob , the son of Isac, the son of Abraham is the star of the film. Betrayed by his jealous brothers Joseph is brought up far from his family by an Egyptian aristocrat who realizes his talents and capabilities. His wife however, falls in love with Joseph and facing his refusal to betray her husband, she plots to throw him in prison for eight years. Known as Juzarsif among the Egyptians , he later becomes a key minister and advisor to the Pharoh and saves Egypt during eight years of drought.
This Quranic narration is one of the most attractive and enlightening stories of the Prophetic tradition and there is an analogy made in Islamic and Iranian literature and mysticism between the separation of Joseph from his father and the separation of the spirit from its creator. But more interesting is the analogy with the occultation of the last Imam, Mahdi. We are waiting , as Jacob was, for the appearance of the Saviour . Its also interesting to note that a film about the Children of Israel ,or Jacob is being screened on national TV at a time when Iran is accused of having an anti-Semitic approach at the global stage.
Iranian film makers have produced several successful series on Quranic tradition and Islamic history during recent years. The Virgin Mary and the Men of Angelos were films both based on narrations from the Quran ,yet related to Christian belief. It is surprising for many Christians and Jews to learn that the Holy Quran presents such detailed and vivid narrations related to their faith so firmly and proudly without any prejudice.
The direction of the film is criticised by many viewers, I also feel there are alot of weaknesses in the way Mr. Salahshour has presented the dialogues and the chain of events. The Director is also renown for his sympathy and support for the policies and line of thought of President Ahmadinejad and some people believe he is trying to draw an analogy between the President's economic plans and Joseph's policies as a propaganda strategy for the current government. We have fallen in the habit of waiting for text messages joking about Joseph and Ahmadinejad once every week.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Khatami and A Nostalgic March
I was marching in the nostalgic Azadi Avenue this morning along with millions of Iranians nationwide commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. Thirty years on the Revolution is still viable and moving forward in spite of all the pressures, obstacles and sanctions. The streets were filled with people from all walks of life, men, women ,young and old, had all taken part on the basis of their beliefs and aspirations for the future of Iran. The march was a display of the diversity that the Iranian nation harbors when it comes to defending their revolution.
The weather was mild in Tehran and everyone enjoyed the walk. We had marched this avenue during the Revolution and these demonstrations were probably the most effective method to topple the pro-American monarchial regime in 1979. Among the slogans that millions chanted under the threats and gunpoint of the Shah's regime, was " Independence! Freedom! Islamic Republic!".
Facing pressures from all corners of the country, former President Khatami has now indicated that in spite of his reluctance , he cannot remain indifferent and has decided to run for the third term. From what I know about his psyche , Khatami has no personal ambition or interest in running for Presidency. He has come to the conclusion that he should make a sacrifice to come once again for reform. A reporter from a Chinese satellite asked me what if Khatami did not win the elections. I told him Khatami had come to stand for the elections but he also had a religious and cultural agenda to bring back to life to the authentic values of the Revolution.
The weather was mild in Tehran and everyone enjoyed the walk. We had marched this avenue during the Revolution and these demonstrations were probably the most effective method to topple the pro-American monarchial regime in 1979. Among the slogans that millions chanted under the threats and gunpoint of the Shah's regime, was " Independence! Freedom! Islamic Republic!".
Facing pressures from all corners of the country, former President Khatami has now indicated that in spite of his reluctance , he cannot remain indifferent and has decided to run for the third term. From what I know about his psyche , Khatami has no personal ambition or interest in running for Presidency. He has come to the conclusion that he should make a sacrifice to come once again for reform. A reporter from a Chinese satellite asked me what if Khatami did not win the elections. I told him Khatami had come to stand for the elections but he also had a religious and cultural agenda to bring back to life to the authentic values of the Revolution.
Friday, January 30, 2009
The Rapprochement
"As I said in my inauguration speech, if countries like Iran are willing to unclench their fist, they will find an extended hand from us," American President Obama has recently said in an interview with Al Arabyia.
"It is very important for us to make sure that we are using all the tools of US power, including diplomacy, in our relationship with Iran."he said.
Iranian press is full of new and reactions on these developments. Some sound optimistic ,others are very cautious. The official National TV is however, restraining the news and analysis.
Iran is top on the agenda for not only the US President, but Secretary of State Clinton as well as UN Representative Susan Rice, who all commented on the US strategy on dealing with Iran. Even much has been said on that tone in Davos ,although the Erdogan -Peres debacle which has turned Erdogan into a national hero has topped the news on that matter.
The reality is that Americans do not have a clean reputation in Iran or in the Islamic world for that matter. They need to engage in confidence building strategies before any successful rapprochement occurs.
For the Islamic Republic ,there is no reason to pursue an antagonistic position if it sees any change in the tone and policy of Americans. I think the Government of President Ahmadinejad is prepared to engage within the well defined policy lines of the Supreme Leader. He is however, not the final decision maker on such matters which are classified as national security issues. Three issues have made things more difficult for both Americans and Iranians. First, the terrible assault of Israel against the civilian Gazan population, leaving about 400 children killed along with the biased support of the US government. Second, is the highly polarized political atmosphere in Iran in face of the up-coming presidential elections. Reformists have serious criticism on the economic and general performance of the government and this is giving them a difficult time internally. Third, are the attempts that seem to be pursued by satellite TV programs and other types of US funded activities which are endangering the civil society and internal opposition activity. The US Congress adopted funds to support opposition groups unaware of the fact that most Iranians active in the civil society or human rights activists seriously refrain from accepting any foreign assistance under such pretexts for fear that they would jeopardize their credibility not only in face of the Government but in face of the people as well. This American policy has put the civil society in Iran in difficult circumstances.
In any case , the rapprochement between Iran and the US needs more effort and action from the American side. For the moment it seems that the Iranian government is cautiously keen to pursue this line as it will positively influence their political conditions for the imminent elections.
"It is very important for us to make sure that we are using all the tools of US power, including diplomacy, in our relationship with Iran."he said.
Iranian press is full of new and reactions on these developments. Some sound optimistic ,others are very cautious. The official National TV is however, restraining the news and analysis.
Iran is top on the agenda for not only the US President, but Secretary of State Clinton as well as UN Representative Susan Rice, who all commented on the US strategy on dealing with Iran. Even much has been said on that tone in Davos ,although the Erdogan -Peres debacle which has turned Erdogan into a national hero has topped the news on that matter.
The reality is that Americans do not have a clean reputation in Iran or in the Islamic world for that matter. They need to engage in confidence building strategies before any successful rapprochement occurs.
For the Islamic Republic ,there is no reason to pursue an antagonistic position if it sees any change in the tone and policy of Americans. I think the Government of President Ahmadinejad is prepared to engage within the well defined policy lines of the Supreme Leader. He is however, not the final decision maker on such matters which are classified as national security issues. Three issues have made things more difficult for both Americans and Iranians. First, the terrible assault of Israel against the civilian Gazan population, leaving about 400 children killed along with the biased support of the US government. Second, is the highly polarized political atmosphere in Iran in face of the up-coming presidential elections. Reformists have serious criticism on the economic and general performance of the government and this is giving them a difficult time internally. Third, are the attempts that seem to be pursued by satellite TV programs and other types of US funded activities which are endangering the civil society and internal opposition activity. The US Congress adopted funds to support opposition groups unaware of the fact that most Iranians active in the civil society or human rights activists seriously refrain from accepting any foreign assistance under such pretexts for fear that they would jeopardize their credibility not only in face of the Government but in face of the people as well. This American policy has put the civil society in Iran in difficult circumstances.
In any case , the rapprochement between Iran and the US needs more effort and action from the American side. For the moment it seems that the Iranian government is cautiously keen to pursue this line as it will positively influence their political conditions for the imminent elections.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Joe Biden in Davos
Like the rest of the world, in Iran, there are alot of reactions to Obama's inaugural ceremony and the first days he has had in the Oval Office. His meteoric rise to the Presidency of the United States has given the signal to many throughout the world that change is on the way. His quick decisions to close down Guantanamo and other CIA detention centers have been generally welcomed . Here in Iran, politicians are still cautiously optimistic . Whether this is truly a new era for America as Hillary Clinton put it yesterday or not has to be seen . We are waiting to see how Obama's new rhetroric in dealing with its adversaries including with Iran will actually translate into action. There have been many attempts to engage Iran before but without much success. The lack of trust on both sides has been evident.
Joe Biden , as an American Senator was the guest speaker of the Iran in the World session in Davos in 2005 . Dr. Kharazi and I spoke on the diverse aspects of Iranian society and politics in that session, misunderstandings between the two nations were also discussed. Joe Biden who was there along with his wife, also spoke that night. Biden defined the circumstances and mentioned that Iran has to choose between its nuclear energy program and its economic advancement plans. He was trying to make a strong impression of the American resolve on this matter.
In the IGWEL session in the World Economic Forum many Presidents, Vice Presidents and Minsters spoke on global issues. As I recall , one other American senator Orrin Hatch was there in addition to Biden. They faced many questions on American economic and diplomatic policy. I brought up the question why the US had so many double standards in dealing with the world. Why had they supported dictatorships who were US allies and opposed democracies when they were American adversaries. What are the core values America claims to promote , I asked.
Now, as the US Vice President and working with Barack Obama I think Biden has many opportunities to rationalise relations between Iran and the US. Confidence building is probably the key .
Joe Biden , as an American Senator was the guest speaker of the Iran in the World session in Davos in 2005 . Dr. Kharazi and I spoke on the diverse aspects of Iranian society and politics in that session, misunderstandings between the two nations were also discussed. Joe Biden who was there along with his wife, also spoke that night. Biden defined the circumstances and mentioned that Iran has to choose between its nuclear energy program and its economic advancement plans. He was trying to make a strong impression of the American resolve on this matter.
In the IGWEL session in the World Economic Forum many Presidents, Vice Presidents and Minsters spoke on global issues. As I recall , one other American senator Orrin Hatch was there in addition to Biden. They faced many questions on American economic and diplomatic policy. I brought up the question why the US had so many double standards in dealing with the world. Why had they supported dictatorships who were US allies and opposed democracies when they were American adversaries. What are the core values America claims to promote , I asked.
Now, as the US Vice President and working with Barack Obama I think Biden has many opportunities to rationalise relations between Iran and the US. Confidence building is probably the key .
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Clean Air and Good Intentions
There have been so many events going on during the past days. We had the Clean Air Day celebrations on Sunday. This was an event that the Department of Environment initiated during my tenure. During those years we embarked on a serious strategy to improve air quality in Tehran as well as 7 major cities, amounting to better air for more than 20 million citizens. A comprehensive plan was implemented in 7 phases and more than 40 projects. We had achieved many targets by 2006 including out phasing lead from gasoline in the country, implementing emission standards for the automotive industry and promoting CNG fueled public transportation. Those projects resulted in better air quality until 2007 , however since the new government was installed many projects have failed or have faced serious delays. Now the quality of air in this city of 8.5 million is deteriorating quickly.
The Environment Committee of the City Council visited some of the projects of the Metro ( the underground urban train system) . The Metro has transported more than 2 billion commuters since its inception in 1996 and it is rapidly expanding the current 3 lines to 8 lines. Several regions in the city are under construction for the Metro . The people are generally very satisfied and hope to see new lines opened for transportation in different parts of the city. We visited some lines in the south of the city and also some maintenance facilities.
My general impression is that the current government is no longer interested in promoting environmental standards and improving air and water quality. They seem to follow only short term objectives and usually invest where they can generate some propaganda for the upcoming presidential elections. Their incompetence in many areas is now taking its toll.
No one still knows whether President Khatami will stand for these elections or not. Many people hope that he will step forward to change the existing circumstances. Others pray that God gives him the wisdom to make a correct decision.
Changes in the American administration are inevitable and the world is watching closely. The inaugural ceremony is underway. We have a religious narration saying that : Actions are judged by the intentions behind them. I hope Obama has good intentions not only for the American people but for all of humanity as well.
The Environment Committee of the City Council visited some of the projects of the Metro ( the underground urban train system) . The Metro has transported more than 2 billion commuters since its inception in 1996 and it is rapidly expanding the current 3 lines to 8 lines. Several regions in the city are under construction for the Metro . The people are generally very satisfied and hope to see new lines opened for transportation in different parts of the city. We visited some lines in the south of the city and also some maintenance facilities.
My general impression is that the current government is no longer interested in promoting environmental standards and improving air and water quality. They seem to follow only short term objectives and usually invest where they can generate some propaganda for the upcoming presidential elections. Their incompetence in many areas is now taking its toll.
No one still knows whether President Khatami will stand for these elections or not. Many people hope that he will step forward to change the existing circumstances. Others pray that God gives him the wisdom to make a correct decision.
Changes in the American administration are inevitable and the world is watching closely. The inaugural ceremony is underway. We have a religious narration saying that : Actions are judged by the intentions behind them. I hope Obama has good intentions not only for the American people but for all of humanity as well.
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