Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 27
By Elnur Baghishov – Trend:
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani did not accept the resignation of Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, Trend reports referring to the official website of the Iranian government (Dolat.ir).
President Rouhani replied to the letter of Mohammad Javad Zarif's resignation:
"Mr. Zarif!
Iranian Foreign Minister
I received your resignation letter dated February 25. You are the person approved by me for preserving the worthy place of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as the highest-ranking official in Iran's foreign policy. I praise your continuous efforts, find your resignation as being contrary to national interests, and do not accept it.
The task of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is fulfilling national interests and security, and forming conditions for foreign relations. I have repeatedly instructed for all bodies - state and governmental bodies alike - to fully coordinate their steps in foreign relations with the ministry.
I am in full comprehension of the pressure put against the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the government, and even the president. We are forever faithful to our covenant with the people and believe that we shall overcome this difficult stage.
Hassan Rouhani,
Iranian President