Iran will attain goals of 20-Year Outlook Plan ahead of schedule: Ahmadinejad

Tehran Times:

July 30, 2005

TEHRAN -- President-Elect Mahmud Ahmadinejad said here on Friday that he is confident Iran will attain the goals of the 20-Year Outlook Plan sooner than predicted through honest efforts and with the help of God.

In a meeting with the Supreme Leader’s representatives in universities around Tehran Province, Ahmadinejad said that building a prosperous country based on science and culture requires sincere efforts by wise, brave, and creative people. “The main objective in all scientific, religious, and cultural efforts is spiritual development. Thus, seminaries and universities pursue a common goal,” he observed.

The president-elect stressed that adopting a cultural viewpoint on all aspects of life is essential, adding that universities are tasked with performing cultural activities and training cultured people.

In order to do so, universities should promote solidarity and remain vigilant in the face of divisive efforts, he noted, and voiced the new government’s readiness to support cultural activities at universities.

Ahmadinejad also stressed the necessity to strengthen friendly ties between the Supreme Leader’s representatives at universities and students and academics. He referred to students as assets of the Islamic Revolution, saying all the sincere forces of society, without exception, can gather under the umbrella of Islam, the Revolution, and the Islamic government, which is a sign of friendship and brotherhood.

The president-elect also warned against violence at universities, saying the enemies of Iran are planning to try to create a hateful and violent atmosphere in universities. He announced that expert sessions would be held after the inauguration of the new government to study methods to resolve various problems of the country’s universities.

“I am certain that, despite the enemies’ efforts, our universities will soon enjoy a friendly and pleasant atmosphere,” he said in conclusion.

Prior to Ahmadinejad’s remarks, Hojjatoleslam Qomi, the Supreme Leader’s representative to universities throughout Iran, delivered a speech, saying the result of the recent presidential election was the manifestation of religious democracy in Iran, which showed people’s trust in universities and academics.

He added that universities are prepared to help establish the proper spiritual foundation for establishing an Islamic government.

At the meeting, several other representatives also presented their viewpoints on cultural issues in universities.