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Rouhani Talks Peace at Military Parade


FILE - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.
FILE - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.
Iran's president said during an annual military parade his country does not want war, but has the means to deter any attacks.

Hassan Rouhani said Friday in Tehran his country would not invade another country, but would "resist any aggression."

The president said "we are not after war, we are after logic, we are after talks."

Unlike his hardline predecessor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Rouhani did not use the occasion to lash out at the United States and Israel.

The president also assured neighboring countries that Iran seeks better ties with them, saying that "neighbors should know that our army supports peace and stability."

Iran showcased its military defense equipment in Friday's parade.

Since his election, Rouhani has pledged to resolve Iran's nuclear dispute with the West and end painful economic sanctions imposed over Tehran's controversial nuclear program. The West accuses Iran of trying to make a nuclear weapon.

Tehran denies the charge, saying its nuclear activities are meant for peaceful purposes only, such as power generation.
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