Leader meets with war disabled people

Leader meets with war disabled people
2011/09/28 - 16:30

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei met with a number of spinal cord injured devotees of Tehran.

During the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei spoke with tens of war disabled and devotees and lauded their families' belief and resistance.

Ayatollah Khamenei said that respecting the war disabled people and devotees manifested the actual meaning of self-sacrifice in the society and the Islamic system needs it seriously.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution expressed his sincere respect to the fathers, mothers, wives, children and nurses of the war disabled and said," Honest services of the war disabled were the biggest self-sacrifice and Jihad and has a great value before God."

http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8614

Full text of president's speech at UN General Assembly

Full text of president's speech at UN General Assembly
31 Shahrivar 1390 21:07

Address by H.E. Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad President of the Islamic Republic of Iran before the 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

New York 22 September 2011

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, The Merciful

All praise be to Allah, the lord of the Universe, and peace and blessing be upon our Master and prophet, Mohammad, and his pure household, his noble companions and on all divine messengers.

‘Oh, God, hasten the arrival of Imam al-Mahdi and grant him good health and victory, and make us his followers and all those who attest to his rightfulness.’

Mr. President,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am grateful to the Almighty Allah who granted me, once more, the opportunity to appear before this world assembly. I have the pleasure to express my sincere thanks to H.E. Joseph Deiss, president of the sixty-fifth session for his tremendous efforts during his tenure. I also would like to congratulate H.E Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser on his election as the president of sixty-sixth session of the United Nations and wish him all success.

Let me seize the moment to pay tribute to all those who lost their lives in the past year, particularly to the victims of tragic famine in Somalia and the devastating flood in Pakistan. I urge everyone to increase their assistance and aid to the affected populations in these countries.

Over the past years, I spoke about different global issues, and the need to introduce fundamental changes in the current international order.

- Today, considering the international developments, I will try to analyze the present situation from a different angle.

- As you all know the dominance and superiority of human beings over other creatures, lie in the very nature and the truth of humankind.

which is a divine gift and a manifestation of the divine spirit embodying:

- Faith in God, who is the ever-lasting creator and planner of the entire universe.

- Showing compassion to others, generosity, justice-seeking, and having integrity both in words and in deeds.

- The quest for dignity to reach the pinnacles of perfection, the aspiration to elevate one’s material and spiritual status, and the longing to realize liberty;

- Defying oppression, corruption, and discrimination in contrast to supporting the oppressed.

- Seeking happiness, and lasting prosperity and security for all.

- These are some of the manifestations of common divine and human attributes which can clearly be seen in the historical aspirations of human beings as reflected in the heritage of our search for art and literary works both in prose and poetry, and in the socio-cultural and political movements of human beings in the course of history.

- All divine prophets and social reformers invited human beings to tread on this righteous path.

- God has given dignity to humankind to elevate his status to assume his successor role on Earth.

Dear Colleagues and friends:

- It is vividly clear that despite all historical achievements, including creation of the United-Nations, that was a product of untiring struggles and efforts of free-minded and justice-seeking individuals as well as the international cooperation, human societies are yet far from fulfilling their noble desires and aspirations.

- Most nations of the world are unhappy with the current international circumstances.

- And despite the general longing and aspiration to promote peace, progress, and fraternity, wars, mass-murder, widespread poverty, and socioeconomic and political crises continue to infringe upon the rights and sovereignty of nations, leaving behind irreparable damage worldwide;

- Approximately, three billion people of the world live on less than 2.5 dollars a day, and over a billion people even live without having even one sufficient meal on a daily basis;

- Forty-percent of the poorest world populations only share five percent of the global income, while twenty percent of the richest people share seventy-five percent of the total global income.

- More than twenty thousand innocent and destitute children die every day in the world because of poverty.

- Eighty percent of financial resources in the United States are controlled by ten percent of its population, while only twenty percent of these resources belong to the ninety percent of the population.

- What are the causes and reasons behind these inequalities? How can bone remedy such injustice?

- Those who dominate and run centers of global economic power put the blame on people’s aspiration for religion and the pursuit of the path of divine prophets or the weakness of nations and the ill-performance of a number of groups or individuals. They claim that only their views, approaches or prescriptions can save the humanity and the world economy.

Dear Colleagues and friends

- Don’t you think that the root cause of the problems must be sought in the prevailing international order, or the way the world is governed?

I would like to draw your kind attention to the following questions:

- Who abducted forcefully tens of millions of people from their homes in Africa and other regions of the world during the dark period of slavery, making them a victim of their materialistic greed?

- Who imposed colonialism for over four centuries upon this world? Who occupied lands and massively plundered resources of other nations, destroyed talents, and alienated languages, cultures and identities of nations?

- Who triggered the first and second world wars, that left seventy millions killed and hundreds of millions injured or homeless. Who created the wars in Korean peninsula and in Vietnam?

- Who imposed, through deceits and hypocrisy, the Zionists and over sixty years of war, homelessness, terror and mass murder on the Palestinian people and on countries of the region?

- Who imposed and supported for decades military dictatorship and totalitarian regimes on Asian, African, and Latin American nations.

- Who used atomic bomb against defenseless people, and stockpiled thousands of warheads in their arsenals?

- Whose economies rely on waging wars and selling arms?

- Who provoked and encouraged Saddam Hussein to invade and impose an eight-year war on Iran, and who assisted and equipped him to deploy chemical weapons against our cities and our people.

- Who used the mysterious September 11 incident as a pretext to attack Afghanistan and Iraq - killing, injuring, and displacing millions in two countries- with the ultimate goal of bringing into its domination the Middle-East and its oil resources?

- Who abolished the Breton Woods system and printed trillions of dollars without the backing of gold reserves or equivalent currency? A move that triggered inflation worldwide and was intended to prey on the economic gains of other nations.

- What country’s military spending exceeds annually a thousand billion dollars, more than the military budgets of all countries of the world combined?

- Which governments are the most indebted ones in the world?

- Who dominates the policy-making establishments of the world economy?

- Who are responsible for the world economic recession, and are imposing its consequences on America, Europe and the world in general?

- Which governments are ever ready to drop thousands of bombs on other countries, but ponder and hesitate to send a bit of food aid to famine-stricken people in Somalia or in other places?

- Who are the ones dominating the Security Council which is ostensibly responsible to safeguard the international security?

- There exist tens of other similar questions and of course, the answers are clear.

- The majority of nations and governments of the world have had no role in the creation of the current global crises, and as a matter of fact were themselves the victims of such policies.

- It is as lucid as daylight that the same slave masters and colonial powers that once instigated the two world wars have caused widespread miseries and disorder with far-reaching effects across the globe since then.

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

- Do these arrogant powers really have the competence and ability to run or govern the world, or is it acceptable that they call themselves as the sole defender of freedom, democracy, and human rights, while they militarily attack and occupy other countries?

- Can the flower of democracy blossom from NATO’s missiles, bombs or, guns?

Ladies and Gentlemen;

- If some European countries still use the Holocaust, after six decades, as the excuse to pay fine or ransom to the Zionists, should it not be an obligation upon the slave masters or colonial powers to pay reparations to the affected nations?

- If the damage and losses of the period of slavery and colonialism were indeed compensated, what would happen to the manipulators and behind-the-scene political powers in the United States and in Europe? Will there remain any gaps between the North and the South?

- If only half of military expenditures of the United States and its allies in NATO is cut to help solve the economic problems in their own countries will they be witnessing any symptom of the economic crisis?

- What would happen, if the same amount is allocated to poor nations?

- What is the justification for the presence of hundreds of US military and intelligence bases in different parts of the world, including 268 bases in Germany, 124 in Japan, 87 in South Korea, 83 in Italy, 45 in the United-Kingdom, and 21 in Portugal? Does this mean anything other than military occupation?

- Don’t the bombs deployed in the said bases undermine the security of other nations?

Ladies and Gentlemen

- The main question is the quest for the root cause of such attitudes?

- The prime reason should be sought in the beliefs and tendencies of the establishment.

- Assemblies of people in contradiction with the inner human instincts and disposition, who also have no faith in God and in the path of the divine prophets, replace their lust for power and materialistic ends with heavenly values.

- To them, only power and wealth prevail, and every attempt must bring into focus these sinister goals.

- Oppressed nations have no hope to restore or protect their legitimate rights against these powers.

- These powers seek their progress, prosperity and dignity through the poverty, humiliation and annihilation of others.

- They consider themselves superior to others enjoying special privileges or concessions. They have no respect for others and easily violate the rights of all nations and governments.

- They proclaim themselves as the indisputable custodians of all governments and nations through intimidation, recourse to threat and force, and the abuse of international mechanisms. They simply break all the internationally-recognized and regulations.

- They insist on imposing their lifestyle and beliefs on others.

- They officially support racism.

- They weaken countries through military intervention, and destroy their infrastructures, in order to plunder their resources by making them all the more dependent.

- They sow the seeds of hate and hostility among nations and people of different pursuits, in order to prevent them from fulfilling their goals of development and progress.

- All cultures, identities, lives, values and wealth of nations, women, youth, families, families as well as the wealth of nations are sacrificed by their hegemonic tendencies and the inclination to enslave and captivate others.

- Hypocrisy and deceit are allowed to secure their interests and imperialistic goals. Drug- trafficking and killing of innocent human beings are also allowed in pursuit of such diabolic goals. Despite NATO’s presence in the occupied Afghanistan, there has been a dramatic increase in the production of illicit drugs there.

- They tolerate no question or criticism, and instead of presenting a reason for their violations, they always put themselves in the position of a claimant.

- By using their imperialistic media network which is under the influence of colonialism they threaten anyone who questions the Holocaust, and September 11 with sanctions and military action.

- Last year, when the need to form a fact-finding team to undertake a thorough investigation concerning the hidden elements involved in September 11 incident was brought up- an idea which is also endorsed by all independent governments and nations as well as by the majority in the United States-, my country and myself came under pressure and threats by the government of the United States.

- Instead of assigning a fact-finding team, they killed the main perpetrator and threw his body into the sea.

- Would it not have been reasonable to bring to justice and try openly the main perpetrator of the incident in order to identify the elements behind the safe space provided for the invading aircraft to attack the twin world trade towers?

- Why should it not have been allowed to bring him into trial to help recognize those who launched terrorist groups and brought wars and other miseries into the region?

- Is there any classified information that must be kept secret?

- They view Zionism as a sacred notion or ideology and any question concerning its very foundation and history is condemned by them as an unforgivable sin. However they endorse and allow sacrileges and insult against beliefs of other divine religions.

Dear Colleagues and Friends.

- Real freedom, justice, dignity, well being, and lasting security are the rights of all nations.

- These values can neither be achieved by reliance on the current inefficient system of world governance, nor through the intervention of the world arrogant powers and the gun barrels of NATO forces.

- These values could only be realized under independence and recognition of others’ right and through harmony and cooperation.

- Is there any way to address the problems and challenges besetting the world by using the prevailing international mechanisms or tools to help humanity achieve the long-standing aspiration of peace, security and equality?

- All those who tried to introduce reforms whilst preserving the existing norms and tendencies have failed. The valuable efforts made by the Non-Aligned movement and Group 77 and 15 as well as by some prominent individuals have failed to bring fundamental changes.

- Governance and management of the world entail fundamental reforms.

- What has to be done now?

Dear Colleagues and Friends

- Efforts must be made with a firm resolve and through collective cooperation to map out a new plan, on the basis of principles and the very foundation of human universal values such as Monotheism, justice, freedom, love and the quest for happiness.

- The idea of creation of the United Nations remains a great and historical achievement of mankind. Its importance must be appreciated and its capacities must be used to the extent possible for our noble goals.

- We should not allow the organization which is the reflection of the collective will and shared aspiration of the community of nations, to deviate from its main course and play into the hands of the world powers.

- Conducive ground must be prepared to ensure collective participation and involvement of nations in an effort to promote lasting peace and security.

- Shared and collective management of the world must be achieved in its true sense, and based on the underlying principles enshrined in the international law; and justice must serve as the criterion and the basis for all international decisions or actions.

- All of us should acknowledge the fact that there is no other way than the shared and collective management of the world in order to put an end to the present disorders, tyranny, and discriminations worldwide.

- This is indeed the sole way to prosperity and welfare of human society which is an established and vivid truth.

- While acknowledging the above truth, one should note that it is not enough and that we must have further faith in that and spare no effort toward its realization.

Dear Colleagues and Friends

- Shared and collective management of the world is the legitimate right of all nations, and we as their representatives, have an obligation to defend their rights. Although some powers continuously try to frustrate all international efforts, aimed at promoting collective cooperation, we must, however, strengthen our belief in achieving the perceived goal of establishing a shared and collective cooperation to run the world.

- The United Nations was created to make possible effective participation of all nations in international decision-making processes.

- We all know that this goal has not yet been fulfilled because of the absence of justice in the current management structures and mechanisms of the UN.

- The composition of the Security Council is unjust and inequitable. Therefore, changes and restructuring of the United Nations are considered as the basic demands of the nations that must be addressed by the General Assembly.

- During last year session, I emphasized the importance of this issue and called for the designation of this decade as the decade of shared and collective Global Management.

- I would like now to reiterate my proposal and I am sure that through international cooperation diligent and efforts of committed world leaders or governments and through insistence on justice and the support of all other nations, we can expedite the building of a common bright future.

- This movement is certainly on the rightful path of creation with the assurance of promising future for humanity.

- A future that will be built when humanity initiates to trend the path of the divine prophets and the righteous the under the leadership of Imam al-Mahdi, the Ultimate Savior of mankind and the inheritor to all divine messengers, leaders and to the pure generation of our great Prophet.

- Creation of a supreme and ideal society with the arrival of a perfect human being, who is a true and sincere lover of all human beings, is the guaranteed promise of Allah.

- He will come with Jesus Christ to lead the freedom and justice lovers to eradicate tyranny and discrimination, and promote knowledge, peace, justice freedom and love across the world. He will present to every single individual all the beauties of the world and all good things which bring happiness for humankind.

- Today nations have been awakened and with the increase in public awareness, they no longer succumb to oppressions and discriminations.

- The world is now witnessing more than ever, the widespread awakening in Islamic lands, in Asia, Europe, and America. These movements are ever expanding everyday their specter and influence to pursue the realization of justice, freedom and the creation of a better tomorrow.

- Our great nation stands ready to join hands with other nations to march on this beautiful path in harmony and in line with the shared aspirations of mankind.

- Let us salute love, freedom, justice, knowledge, and the bright future that awaits humankind.

http://www.president.ir/en/?ArtID=30573

World hegemony seeks to spread insecurity

World hegemony seeks to spread insecurity
2011/09/20 - 18:54

Islamic Revolution Leader Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei alerted the IRI police that the world hegemony was seeking to to undermine independent nations by spreading of insecurity.

"The spread of social, moral and spiritual insecurity is among the schemes employed by the world arrogance to counter the progress of independent nations," Ayatollah Khamenei said in an address to police personnel and staff in a cadet graduation ceremony on Tuesday.

The IR Leader added that social and moral security was among the main pillars of Iran's progress and honor.

The IR Leader said the police had the key responsibility to adopt pre-emptive measures to counter any likely threats.

Ayatollah Khamenei also urged the law enforcement units to serve as a symbol of strength, order, kindness and leniency.

The ceremony was wrapped up with the police units marching past the stand.

http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8596

'West seeks to defeat Muslim's revolutions'

'West seeks to defeat Muslim's revolutions'
2011/09/17 - 20:29

(O Prophet, fear Allah and do not obey the disbelievers and the hypocrites. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise. (1). And follow that which is revealed to you from your Lord. Indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted. (2) And rely upon Allah ; and sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs.(3) Surat Al-Ahzab)

I welcome our honored audience and dear guests. What has brought us here together is the Islamic awakening, which comes from the stronger inspiration and greater understanding among Muslim ummah. This awakening has led to a major development among nations of our region and has brought about uprisings and revolutions that could never have been contemplated in the calculations of the dominant regional and international satanic powers. These are momentous uprising that have razed to the ground the autocratic and imperialist strongholds and vanquished the tyrants guarding them.

There is no doubt that colossal social upheavals have always relied on solid foundation of history and civilization and are products of accumulation of wisdom and experiences. Over the past 150 years, the presence of great intellectual and jihadi personalities that have been opinion leaders and behind Islamic movements in Egypt, Iraq, India and other countries in Asia and Africa has served as precursors and pioneers for the present situation in the Islamic world.

The developments in the 1950’s and 60’s led to coming to power of regimes that were mostly inclined to materialistic ideologies and thoughts, and because of their inherent character fell into the trap of Western imperialist and colonialist powers. These are experiences that are lessons to learn from, and have contributed substantially to evolution of general and profound understanding in the Islamic world.

The Islamic Revolution in Iran that was hailed by Imam Khomeini as “victory of blood over sword”, and establishment of the lasting, robust, courageous and progressive Islamic republic, and its impact on present Islamic awakening is itself a long story that deserves to be debated and researched. There is no doubt that Islamic Revolution of Iran will be accorded a thorough and comprehensive chapter in the analysis and writings of history of the present situation of the Islamic world.

For that reason, the present and mounting facts and truths in the Islamic world are not simply events that are severed from the past historical roots, social and intellectual backgrounds to allow our adversaries and the shallow-minded to present them as a passing wave and short-lived phenomenon in order to snuff out hope in the hearts of nations by their warped and biased analyses.

In this brotherly dialogue with you I want to place greater emphasis on three areas:

1. Taking a glance at the identity of these uprisings and revolutions

2. Major threats and harms lying on their way.

3. Recommendations to find solutions and prevent these threats and harms.

Regarding the first point, I believe the most important element in these revolutions is the actual and mass presence of people in the arena of action, struggle and jihad. They were present, not only with their heart, desire and faith, but also with their body and souls. There is a big difference between this presence and the presence of a military group or even armed combatants in front of uncaring people or even concerned people.

In the events of 1950’s and 60’s in some countries of Africa and Asia, the heavy load of the revolution was not on the shoulder of diverse segments of population and the youth from all parts of the country, but rather on the shoulder of coup d'etat or small and limited armed groups. They decided and acted, and they themselves or the succeeding generation changed their ways as a result of certain motivations. The revolution became its own enemy and the enemy managed again to prevail over their countries.

This is totally different than the change that comes from the people. It is the people that bring their body and soul to the arena of action, and by their jihad and devotion push back and defeat the enemy. It is the people that make the slogans and set the goals, identify and introduce and pursue the enemy. They draw their desired future, although not comprehensively, and as a result do not allow departure from the path of the revolution or conceding to the enemy, or change of course by compromising and the tainted few with special interests, and above all thwart the schemes of enemy’s agents.

In such a grass-root movement, the revolution may be slowed, but can stay away from short-sightedness and being on shaky ground. Quran says “Have you not considered how Allah presents an example, [making] a good word like a good tree, whose root is firmly fixed and its branches [high] in the sky?

(Have you not considered how Allah presents an example, [making] a good word like a good tree, whose root is firmly fixed and its branches [high] in the sky?
(24" Ibrahim)

When I saw the brave body of the proud people of Egypt on television in Tahrir Square, I became convinced that their revolution will triumph.

Let me confess something to you. After the victory of the Islamic Revolution and the establishment of the Islamic republic in Iran which caused an earthquake among the worldly materialistic rulers in East and West and brought unprecedented uproar and joy to Muslim nations, we expected that Egypt would be next in line to rise. The reason was the history of jihad, progressive thinking and presence of great mojahids and intellectuals in Egypt. I was reciting in my heart this poem by Abu Faras:

When I saw the people of Egypt in Tahrir Square and squares in other cities, I knew I have received my response. The people of Egypt told me with words coming from their heart:

…This sacred secret was nothing but the motivation and resolve to rise, and gradually people of Egypt cemented this thought in their mind and at a historical juncture they manifested their resolve and entered the arena in a magnificent show of their power.

Tunisia, Yemen, Libya, and Bahrain are no exception to this general rule.

In these revolutions principles, values and goals are not written in prefabricated manifestos of groups and parties, but written in the minds, hearts and desires of each and every person present on the scene and are declared in the context of their slogans and behaviors.

With these signals one can clearly tell that the principles of current revolutions in the region, in Egypt and other countries, are first and foremost the following:

- Revival and renewal of national dignity and respect that have been broken and trampled during long years of dictatorial and corrupt rule and the political domination of America and the West.

- Keeping up the banner of Islam which is the profound faith and longstanding attachment of people and being able to enjoy peace of mind, justice, progress and prosperity that could only be achieved under Islamic Sharia.

- Resistance against the influence and domination of the United States and Europe that have wreaked the greatest damage and humiliation on the peoples of these countries over the past two hundred years.

- Countering the usurper and fictitious Zionist regime that the imperialist powers have planted like a dagger in the heart of this region to serve as a tool to continue their diabolical domination after expelling a whole nation from their historical homeland.

There is no doubt that the revolutions in the region that rely on and demand these principles are not to the liking of America, Europe and the Zionists, and they are going to use all means to deny them, but the truth will not change with their denial.

The widespread participation of people in these revolutions is the most important element that constitutes their identity. Foreign powers that tried everything in their power and used all their schemes to keep in power the tyrannical, corrupt and subservient rulers in these countries and only abandoned them when the people left no choice for them have no right to claim a share in the victory of these revolutions. Even in Libya intervention by America and NATO cannot distort the truth. In Libya, NATO has caused irreparable damage. Had it not been for the military intervention of NATO and America, victory of people might have been delayed, but all these infrastructures would not have been damaged, and innocent women and children killed and then enemies that were accomplices of Qaddafi would not have been able to intervene in this innocent war-torn nation.

People and the elite that are of the people and others who are from the people are the true owners of these revolutions that should be trusted to protect them and draw the path to the future.

2- Regarding the threats and harm, I should first emphasize that although there are threats, but there are also ways to stay safe. Mere presence of threats should not scare nations.

(Indeed, the plot of Satan has ever been weak)

Allah says about a group of mojahids of early Islam:

(Those to whom hypocrites said, "Indeed, the people have gathered against you, so fear them." But it [merely] increased them in faith, and they said, "Sufficient for us is Allah, and [He is] the best Disposer of affairs." So they returned with favor from Allah and bounty, no harm having touched them. And they pursued the pleasure of Allah, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.)

We need to know what these threats are, in order not to be surprised and to be able to find solutions.

We faced these perils and threats after the victory of Islamic Revolution and experienced them. With the grace of Allah and the leadership of Imam Khomeini and sacrifices of our people we managed to sail through them safely. The plots by enemies still continue but so does the firm resolve of our people.

I divide the harm to these movements into two groups: those that have their roots within ourselves and come from our own weaknesses, and those that have been directly planned by the enemy.

The first group of harms is of the following type:

The sense and thought that after the downfall of the corrupt dictator the job is over. The peace of mind and comfort that comes after the victory and afterward the lessening of motivation and weakening of determination are among the first perils, and the most damaging threat is when individuals ask for their share of the spoils of victory.

The story of the Battle of Uhud and the defenders seeking the spoils of victory caused the defeat of Muslims, and the mojahids were reprimanded by God. This is a good example that should never be forgotten. Being shocked and awed by the appearances of the arrogant powers and the feeling of fear from America and other interventionist powers are of these kinds of harm that should be avoided.

The brave and young should throw out these fears from their heart. Trusting the enemy and falling into trap of their smiles and promises is another threat that needs to be avoided by the forerunners and leaders. The enemy must be identified no matter what cover it uses. The nation and the revolution should be protected against the designs of the enemy that at times hide behind the appearances of friendship and supportive gestures. Another side to this page is becoming overconfident and overlooking the enemy. Bravery must be combined with wisdom and good judgment. We must use all treasures of God within ourselves against Satan, al-Jinn wal–Ens. Causing division and pitting revolutionaries against one another and penetration behind the battlefront of struggle is another great harm that needs to be avoided with all your power.

The second group of harm has been experienced by almost all countries of the region during different events. The first harm is the coming to power of those who are committed to America and the West. The West tries after the downfall of its pawns to protect the basic pillars of the system and levers of power, and change the direction by using the same foundation, but with a different head, in order to perpetuate its domination. This means wasting of all your efforts and sacrifices. At this stage, if they face resistance of the people, they try to introduce and offer to the movement and people other alternatives that are designed to divert the course of the movement. This scenario could be recommending government models and constitutions that will again throw the Islamic countries into the trap of cultural, political and economic dependence on the West. This could lead to their influence among the revolutionaries greater financial and media strength of an unreliable current and marginalization of the genuine currents in the revolution. This also means return of the domination of the West and the stronger grip of then outdated Western models that are far from basic principles of the revolution.

If this tactic does not produce the desired result, experience tells us that they will go for anarchy, terrorism, civil war among followers of religions or ethnic communities and tribes, political parties, or even among neighboring nations and governments. Parallel to these actions, they will impose economic siege and sanctions, freeze national assets and launch all-out media war and propaganda. Their intention is to tire out and frustrate people and make the revolutionaries disappointed. Under these circumstances it becomes easy to defeat the revolution. Assassination of the righteous elite of the society and opinion leaders, defamation and vilification of others and even enticing some with money are among usual ploys used by the Western powers and the claimants of civilization morality.

In Iran, the evidence and documents from the U.S. Den of Espionage that fell into the hands of the revolution showed that all these plots were designed by the regime in the United States for the people of Iran for them bringing back the reactionary and dependant rulers in revolutionary countries is a principle that prescribes all these dirty tricks.

In the last part of my remarks, I present recommendations for your consideration and selection that are based on our tangible experiences in Iran and what has been gathered from the precise studies of other countries. Undoubtedly, conditions differ among nations and countries. Nonetheless, there are truths that can prove beneficial for all people.

The first point is that by placing one’s trust in God and believing in the repeated promises of divine victories in the Quran and through astuteness, resolve, and braveness, it is possible to surmount all obstacles and emerge victorious. Of course, the task that you all have taken up is quite grave and momentous. Thus, one must bear great hardship for its sake. The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (`a) says:

The important recommendation is that you must always consider yourself as being present on the scene: ( So when you have finished [your duties], then stand up [for worship].)Therefore, when thou art free, still labor hard), always consider God as present and as your aid: (And to thy Lord turn all thy attention), and must not allow your victories to cause you to become arrogant or negligent:

(When comes the help of Allah, and victory. And thou dost see the people enter Allah’s Religion in crowds. Celebrate the praises of thy Lord). These are the true foundations of a faithful nation.

Another recommendation is the constant rereading of the principles of revolution. The slogans and principles must be refined and brought in line with the foundations and undisputed principles of Islam. Independence, freedom, justice, refusal to bow to despotism and colonialism, rejection of ethnic, racial, and religious discrimination, and the outright rejection of Zionism, which, today, comprise the pivots of the movements in Islamic countries, are all inspired by Islam and the Quran.

Write down your principles on paper. Preserve your genuine nature with a high degree of sensitivity. Do not allow your enemies to formulate the principles of your future system. Do not allow Islamic principles to be sacrificed for transient interests. Deviation in revolutions starts with deviation in slogans and objectives. Never place your trust in the U.S., NATO, or criminal regimes such as Britain, France, or, Italy, which for long plundered and divided your land among themselves. Look upon them with suspicion and do not believe their smiles. Behind these smiles and promises lies conspiracy and betrayal. Find you own way by resorting to the blessed fountainhead of Islam and give back foreigners’ prescriptions to themselves.

Another important recommendation is to avoid religious, ethnic, racial, tribal, and border disputes. Recognize differences as legitimate and manage them. Reconciliation among Islamic religions is the key to salvation. Those who fan the flames of religious division through apostatizing others are the mercenaries and servants of Satan, even if done inadvertently.

Creating your own system of governance is your main and seminal task. This is a complex and difficult undertaking. Do not allow secular or western liberal or extremist nationalist or leftist Marxist models to be imposed on you.

The leftist Eastern Bloc collapsed and the Western Bloc is propped up through violence, war, and deceit, and does not appear to have a bright outlook.

The passage of time will be to their loss and to the benefit of the Islamic current.

The ultimate goal must be a unified Islamic Ummah and the creation of a new Islamic civilization founded upon faith, rationality, knowledge, and morality.

The liberation of Palestine from the savage claws of the Zionists is also a great objective. The countries of the Balkans, Caucasus, and western Asia were liberated from the claws of the former Soviet Union after eighty years. Why should the Palestinian people not be able to free themselves from the captivity of the oppressor Zionists after seventy years?

The present generation in Islamic countries has the capacity to accomplish such great feats. The young generation of today is a source of pride for the past generations. As noted by the Arab poet:

Trust your young generation. Revive their feeling of self-confidence and benefit them by the experiences of the elders.

There are two important points in this connection:

First, one of the most important demands of the people who have revolted and who have been liberated is to have a decisive participation in the management of their countries. And since they believe in Islam, their desire is to have a system of Islamic democracy, i.e. the rulers being elected through the vote of the people and the dominant principles and values of the society being based on the Islamic knowledge and sharia. This can crystallize in various countries, depending on their conditions, through various methods and forms. However, utmost care must be taken not to confuse this with the western liberal democracy. The secular, and at times anti-religious, western democracy is in no way related to the Islamic democracy which is committed to the values and main principles of Islam in its system of government.

The second point relates to the fact that Islamic tenets must not be equated with backwardness, obscurantism, and ignorant and extremist biases. The demarcation between these two must be pronounced. Religious extremism, which is usually attended by violence, is the cause of falling short of the lofty goals of the revolution. This, in turn, results in the loss of public support and the eventual failure of the revolution.

In sum, to speak of Islamic awakening is not to speak of a nebulous and indistinct concept that is amenable to various interpretations. Rather, it is to speak of a tangible reality in the external world that has filled the atmosphere and resulted in great uprisings and revolutions and removed from the scene some dangerous elements of the enemy. Nonetheless, the scene remains fluid and in need of being shaped and brought to a conclusion. The verses recited at the outset contain a complete and effective set of guidelines, especially in this sensitive and momentous juncture… Though, they are addressed to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), we all are their interlocutors and responsible for adhering to them. In these verses, piety (taqwa), in its lofty and broad connotation, is the first recommendation. Then comes the rejection of the orders of the infidels and hypocrites, adherence to the divine revelation, and, finally, trust in God…

Once again, we will review these verses:

(In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful. O Prophet! Fear Allah, and hearken not to the unbelievers and the hypocrites: verily Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom. But follow that which comes to thee by inspiration from thy Lord: for Allah is well acquainted with (all) that ye do. And put thy trust in Allah, and enough is Allah as a disposer of affairs.)

http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1523

http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8585

Dictators' fall, blessing of Islamic awakening: Khatami

Dictators' fall, blessing of Islamic awakening: Khatami
9/16/2011 3:57:45 PM

Tehran's interim Friday prayers leader Hojjat-ol-Eslam Sayyed Ahmad Khatami stressed on the importance of the achievements of the 8-month Islamic awakening.

"Today that 8 months of the great wave of Islamic awakening have passed, great successes have been achieved, among their blessings is the downfall of the dictators of Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen," Hojjat-ol-Eslam Khatami said.

"Strengthening the anti-arrogance morale is another blessing of the Islamic awakening of the region's Muslims," he added.

"The practical move by Egyptian hero Muslims in conquering the embassy of the fake and usurper Zionist regime and the coward escape of the regime's ambassador with 71 of his colleagues in Egypt and the nightly coward escape of the Zionist regime's ambassador to Jordan are the peak of shame for this fake regime," Hojjat-ol-Eslam Khatami said.

Tehran's interim Friday prayers leader called on all zealous men of the Islamic world to rise and finish the Zionist regime.

"Another fruit of the Islamic awakening is that revolutionaries have announced that Islam is the pivot of their movements," Hojjat-ol-Eslam Khatami said.

"Revolutionaries have announced that they seek religious democracy which America and the world of arrogance are extremely afraid of," he added.

Tehran's interim Friday prayers leader expressed hope that this Islamic awakening progresses until the full removal of dictators especially the region's dictators.

http://english.iribnews.ir/NewsBody.aspx?ID=15442

Islamic Awakening

Islamic Awakening

Over 600 experts and intellectuals from 80 world countries are to participate in a two-day international conference to discuss the current regional Islamic Awakening.

The conference will start work in Tehran on Saturday, September 17.

Secretary General of the conference Ali-Akbar Velayati told a press conference past week that the two-day would start work under the banner of 'Session on the Islamic Awakening'.

Referring to the waves of the Islamic uprisings rippling across the region, Velayati stressed, "it is more significant to safeguard the achievements of a revolution than making it triumphant."

Portraying a bright future for Egyptians, the former foreign minister anticipated that Cairo will play a crucial role in the Arab world.

http://english.iribnews.ir/IranVision_body.aspx?ID=353

Islamic world developments tell of bright future

Islamic world developments tell of bright future
2011/09/14 - 15:35

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei said the recent Islamic movements in such countries as Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Bahrain and Yemen are divine blessings.

In a meeting with the scholars, elites and intellectuals participating in the 5th General Assembly of Ahlul Bayt World Assembly in the holy city of Mashhad Tuesday evening, Leader of the Islamic Revolution stressed that that the first nation and country which established a system based on Islam and Quran was a nation who follows the household of the holy prophet.

Ayatollah Khamenei said that the youth in the Islamic countries has considered that for reaching their ideals should appeal to Islamic teachings and that was as result of the Iranian nation's movement.

Ayatollah Khamenei stressed that Iran supports Islamic revolutions in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Bahrain and Yemen with the hope that these Islamic movements would result in the ultimate failure of the biggest enemies, namely the Zionists and the US.

Referring to the threats the Islamic Ummah and the Shiite community are presently facing, he said the recent great movements in the Islamic world are in fact preludes to the victory and rule of Islam.

Ayatollah Khamenei underlined that the followers of the household of the Prophet of Islam (PBUH) surely backed these Islamic movements.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution also highlighted the need for vigilance on the part of the Islamic nations and said they should be sensitive to the threats by enemies such as their efforts to sow discord among Sunni and Shiite Muslims.

http://www.leader.ir/langs/en/index.php?p=contentShow&id=8572

Supreme Leader’s Speech to Members of Assembly of Experts

Supreme Leader’s Speech to Members of Assembly of Experts
08/09/2011

The following is the full text of the speech delivered on September 8, 2011 by Ayatollah Khamenei the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution in a meeting with the head and members of the Assembly of Experts in Tehran.

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Honorable gentlemen and dear brothers, welcome. Besides the legal aspects, this meeting which is held once every 6 months is beneficial to me because I get the chance to meet my good friends and brothers, which is very valuable to me.

Fortunately this meeting has been arranged after the month of Ramadan and it is definitely surrounded by the spiritual aura of Ramadan. As evidenced by the reports, the points which were mentioned by the gentlemen were good and important points. All of these things are a sign of God's mercy and it is necessary to be thankful to Him.

When you take a brief look at this year's Ramadan, you realize that it was better and more pleasant than previous Ramadans. Thankfully I have the same feeling every year. The meetings in which the Holy Quran is recited are arranged not just in a couple of cities. They are arranged in many cities of the country and sometimes in one single day more than one thousand people sit down and listen to recitations from the Holy Quran. One does not really know how to thank God for the fact a country which had been separated from the Holy Quran during the time of taghut is so wrapped up in Quranic verses today. One can see young people sitting down and reciting the Holy Quran for an hour and their recitation is so eloquent. Their recitation is correct, accurate and meaning-based and people listen to it. Considering the entire country in general, one can say that the number of people who recite the Holy Quran in the month of Ramadan is in the millions.

The same is true of the meetings arranged for dua. Just imagine a million people - both the people who take part in the meetings and those who stay at home and listen to the duas on TV or on the radio - reciting Dua Abu Hamza during the nights and early mornings of the month of Ramadan. These things are not insignificant: they are a sign of God's grace.

Then it was time for political presence of the people in Quds Day rallies. Again one can see the hand of divine power which attracts the hearts of the people like that and encourages them to take to the streets on a hot day while they are fasting. They show their loyalty to the Revolution and the revolutionary ideals and they shout slogans. Old men, young children, women and men take part in the rallies.

Afterwards it was time for Eid ul-Fitr and the prayers. The solemn duas that are recited in the country on Eid ul-Fitr, the people who get together and attentively pray, cry and ask God the best things - when did we have such things in the country? When was our country so wrapped up in divine signs, solemn praying, dua, attention to God and dhikr over the past centuries? It is not possible to imagine any motive other than sincerity, faith and commitment to Islamic principles. Well, all of these things bring about divine mercy. "Dear God, I pray to You for things that bring about Your mercy." These are the things that will shower us with divine mercy.

Of course sometimes we get confused. Sometimes we fail to notice this divine grace. We fail to see the hand of divine love in different cases. And sometimes we mistakenly think that it was ourselves who did a certain thing. "Had you spent all that is in the earth, you could not have united their hearts, but Allah united them." [The Holy Quran, 8: 63] Who encourages believers to step into the arena? What is it that makes them pay attention to God? It is nothing but the hand of divine power. These are the things that make us hopeful.

I do not want to recount what has happened because we can all see what has happened. I only want to infer this point: "He it is Who strengthened you with His help and with the believers." [The Holy Quran, 8: 62] Allah the Exalted bestows His approval and assistance through believers. It appears that in this ayah assistance means spiritual assistance, as in "I will assist you with a thousand of the angels following one another" [The Holy Quran, 8: 9] and similar other ayahs. "He it is Who strengthened you with His help and with the believers." It is believers who bring about divine assistance. It is believers who preserve Islamic governments. It is believers who prepare the way in different arenas so that their Islamic government can make great achievements. We must not think that "I have been given this only on account of the knowledge I have." [The Holy Quran, 28: 78] We must not think that it is ourselves who are doing what is being done. These things are being done by God. This is the first point. I believe that our people are good people and they are good because they are committed to their religious faith and because faith has permeated their hearts.

Notice how many tools there are to lure the hearts of young people. The number of these tools is not comparable with the past. These satellite programs, these websites and different kinds of communication tools lure hearts and lead them astray. They undermine spiritual motives in people. They provoke human passions. In spite of all these things, the meetings which I mentioned were mostly attended by young people. Sometimes they do not even appear to have a heart that is filled with love for God, but they have such a heart. They go to these meetings and they speak to God. They cry. Their tears make people envy them. When people see a youth sitting in a corner with his face covered in tears, they envy him. Such youth have a pure heart and they are close to God. This is a factor that brings about divine assistance. "He it is Who strengthened you with His help and with the believers." [The Holy Quran, 8: 62]

The point that I would like to raise today - and I will try to make it short - is that political fiqh in Shia Islam dates back to the time when fiqh was first formulated. That is to say, even before derivative jurisprudence was formulated in the 3rd and 4th centuries of the Islamic calendar, political fiqh had a prominent place in Shia fiqh and you can find some examples in Islamic narrations. In the narration that is cited in "Tuhaf ul-Uqul" fiqh is divided into four categories and politics is one of these categories, which is explained in the book. In this and many other narrations the criteria are mentioned, including the famous narration "everything from You is beautiful..." and many other narrations. Later on when derivative jurisprudence was being formulated - during the time of Sheikh Mufid and afterwards - political fiqh was still there. Political fiqh was present in different areas related to the principles of politics.

Therefore, political fiqh has a long history in Shia Islam, but there is something that is new and that is developing a system of government on the basis of this fiqh, which was what our magnanimous Imam (r.a.) did. Before him nobody had developed a system of government on the basis of Shia political fiqh. Imam Khomeini (r.a.) was the first person who developed a system of government - both in theory and in practice - on the basis of Shia political fiqh. He proposed the idea of religious democracy as well as the issue of Vilayat-e Faqih. The Islamic Republic was established on the basis of this fiqh. It was our first experience. We had never had such an experience in our history, neither during the time of the Safavid dynasty nor in other eras. Although during the time of the Safavid dynasty people like "Mohaqeq Karaki" has stepped into the arena, there was no trace of this Islamic and fiqhi system at that time. His best achievement was that he was put in charge of appointing judges, not more than that. There has never been another political system in our country formulated on the basis of fiqh. Establishing a system of government was something that our magnanimous Imam did. As Mr. Mahdavi pointed out in his speech, Imam Khomeini (r.a.) discussed the issue of Vilayat-e Faqih in Najaf and later on he put it into practice, which led to the establishment of the Islamic Republic. Now there are two points in this regard which deserve our attention.

One point is that there has always been a challenge in the way of preserving the identity of the Islamic Republic and this challenge will not go away in the future. The challenge is the conflict between commitment to the principles and foundations of the Islamic Republic on the one hand and achieving material and spiritual progress on the other. Sometimes people start to have doubts. Of course there is a reason why these doubts arise. The reason is that the goals which are based on the principles are not short-term goals, the kind of goals which could be achieved in ten or twenty years. Sometimes it takes generations of people to achieve the goals that have been specified on the basis of the principles. When these goals are not achieved in the short or medium term, prominent figures and government officials start to think that maybe it is their commitment to the principles that prevent them from achieving the goals. This is a very great challenge.

A long time ago I mentioned in a speech that one of the manifestations of the Imam's greatness was his patience in this regard. Of course his leadership was short - it did not last more than ten years. But he managed to establish firm foundations during that short period of time. The Imam did not back down in the face of the problems that came his way - both on domestic and international levels. That is to say, he was patient in the sense that he could tolerate problems. He did not give in to pressure. For example, he was told that Iran could make certain accomplishments if he refrained from issuing a certain hukm - in the case of Salman Rushdie and other issues. But he did not give in to pressure. Today we are faced with the same challenge.

Well, some people might start to think that it is our commitment to the principles that has prevented us from achieving our goals. Certain failures on domestic and international levels might create problems for us. This is an important challenge. It is necessary to deal with this challenge in a clever way. The right way to handle this situation is pursue both goals at the same time and to be aware that these two goals are consistent with each other. These two goals are safeguarding the principles of the Islamic Republic and preserving the identity of the Islamic Republic on the one hand and achieving the goals that have been specified by the Islamic Republic on the other, including material goals and advances and spiritual goals such as establishment of justice and other such things. We should know that these goals are consistent. We cannot reach those goals unless we remain committed to the principles. That is to say, we should not give up the principles because of the problems that we encounter. We should not be satisfied with the bare minimum. We should know that if we give up our principles, the Islamic Republic will lose its identity and we will fail to achieve the goals. We saw similar examples in different revolutions. Of course their principles were wrong, but their concessions did not help them in any way.

Proposing the issue of rationality and speaking about "the Revolution coming to its senses" will not get us anywhere. I remember that during the early years of the Revolution some people used to say that they had to knock some sense into the Revolution. That is to say, they wanted to use rationality as a pretext to give up the main principles and foundations. This must not be done. "And if you obey most of those in the earth, they will lead you astray from Allah's way. They follow but conjecture and they only lie." [The Holy Quran, 6: 116] It is wrong to trample on the principles. Of course this is an important task. Certain subtleties and hardships are involved and in certain cases doubts might arise in the mind of our prominent figures. We must assume that commitment to the principles and preserving the main framework of the Islamic Republic is a fundamental principle.

Therefore, we should go after progress. We tried this and we saw that it is possible to preserve the principle and make advances at the same time. Today our country is not comparable with the early years after the Revolution in terms of scientific progress, in terms of technological progress, in terms of political awareness and experience and in terms of developing effective methods in different organizations, including economic and other organizations. We have made a lot of progress and we have also remained committed to the principles. If we have backed down in the case of certain principles, we should repent of it. We must not compromise our principles. We should also know that divine assistance depends on remaining committed to these principles. This is one point.

The second point which I would like to discuss in this meeting is that developing a system is a gradual process - and as I said earlier, our magnanimous Imam carried out this process on the basis of fiqhi principles. Developing a system does not just mean inferring the principles from fiqh once and for all and putting them into practice. No, this is not the case. Developing a system is a gradual and ongoing process. It is something that has to be completed with every passing day. We might make a mistake in a particular case, but what is important is that we should learn from our mistakes and improve ourselves. This is an integral part of developing a system. This is not to say that we should destroy what we have built in the past. When I say developing a system is an ongoing process, it does not mean we should destroy whatever we have built. It does not mean we should throw away our Constitution and our system of government. No, we should safeguard what we have built. We should eliminate the shortcomings and try to improve what we have built so far. This is necessary.

I think the "absolute" aspect which was added to Vilayat-e Faqih by the Imam is related to this point - namely, flexibility. Originally Vilayat-e Faqih was not specified as absolute in our Constitution: it was our Imam who added this aspect. The system of Vilayat-e Faqih, which is a big system of organizations in charge of decision-making and which is led by the Supreme Leader, should be able to push itself forward and transform itself on a regular basis. This is because change and transformation is an integral part of human life and history. If we fail to change ourselves, change will be imposed on us. Change means perfection. It means moving towards what is right and perfect. That is to say, we need to identify and eliminate the flaws of what we have built. We need to see what the shortcomings are and we need to eliminate them. This process should continue.

Of course the enemies interpret "absolute Vilayat-e Faqih" as a kind of autocracy which is based on the whims of a just faqih. But this interpretation has a contradiction in it: if a person is just, he cannot be autocratic and if a person is autocratic and acts on the basis of his whims, then he is not just. The enemies do not understand this. They do not understand the concept. In absolute Vilayat-e Faqih a just faqih does not do whatever he wants. It is not the case that he simply does whatever that comes to his mind. Absolute Vilayat-e Faqih provides the head of government with a kind of flexibility and enables him to correct the path and make improvements whenever necessary.

Of course there is still a threat in this regard that should be avoided. The threat is to think that this flexibility should be influenced by foreign pressure and change in the direction of western frameworks. They criticize and pressure us regarding the issue of qisas, diyeh and different other things. But if we gave in to pressure, that would not be flexibility. It would be deviation, not flexibility. We should be careful. The holy ayah "And if you obey most of those in the earth, they will lead you astray from Allah's way" applies in this case. We must not revise our position on a certain hukm or principle simply because foreign radio stations and the enemy's propaganda machines and think tanks are protesting and making uproar about it. No, this is wrong. This is deviation and we must not fall into this pitfall.

However, there are new issues that should be addressed. In economic areas there are new issues to be addressed. For example, we created Islamic banking. Today there are new issues in the financial and banking areas and these issues should be resolved. It is necessary to see these things within the framework of Islamic banking, a banking system that is free of usury. Who should do these things? A faqih. Of course I would like to use this opportunity to point out that our need for free fiqhi discussions has not been fulfilled in Qom Islamic Seminary, which is one of the most important Islamic seminaries. A number of gentlemen from Qom Islamic Seminary are present in this meeting. There should be certain courses in Qom for serious critical reasoning in the area of political fiqh so that religious scholars can discuss and clarify new political issues and challenges that the government faces. And then the result of these fiqhi discussions will be made available to different university and seminary intellectuals and prominent academic and non-academic figures who will make the ideas accessible to public opinion, university students and the people of other nations. It is necessary to do these things. We need these things. The product of these scholarly explorations can be made available to people and prominent figures of other countries.

Notice that in eight months four governments were overthrown in one of the most quiet and subdued regions in the world - namely, in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Four dictators who were relying on the west and America were overthrown in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and Yemen. Well, this is a very significant event. I have said before and I repeat now that we are really unable to delineate the dimensions of the significance of this event in an accurate way. A very great event has taken place. The future of the people of these countries is open to different possibilities. One of these possibilities - which we hope will happen - is that prominent religious figures of these countries will manage to take control of the affairs of their countries and that they will manage to delineate the right path for their people, the path which is based on Islam, sharia and indigenous needs. But what are the odds that happening? It can create apprehension in one's heart.

Another possibility is that the same people whose agents were thrown out of the door will get back in through the window. The same people who supported dictatorship against Islam and against the anti-Zionist movement of the Egyptian nation for thirty years, might prepare the ground for another dictatorship. Well, a dictator does not say that he is a dictator when he first comes to power. Dictators come in disguise and they have the necessary propaganda machines, money, facilities and mercenaries to do so. Therefore, one possibility is that they may come and create systems that are totally modeled on western systems. This is a very great threat for these countries: they may come and create western systems of government in these countries in the name of democracy, freedom and other such things. And various kinds of threats will result from this.

The idea of religious democracy is what can help these countries. Religious democracy, which was the result of our magnanimous Imam's innovation, can be a prescription for all these countries. Religious democracy is based both on democracy and religion.

Of course Sunni religious scholars - including Shafi'i scholars in Egypt, Maliki scholars in other countries of that region and Hanafi scholars of certain other countries - might not believe in absolute Vilayat-e Faqih. It is alright. We do not insist that they should accept our fiqhi principles. Religious democracy might take on different forms. We should clarify and explain the principles of religious democracy to them. We need to present these principles to them as a gift. The people of these nations will certainly like religious democracy. This is our duty and we need to do it to prevent the enemies of the people of these nations from exploiting the vacuum that has been created. They should fill this vacuum with Islam.

I hope Allah the Exalted will give us the opportunity to fulfill our responsibilities and act in the best possible way.

Greetings be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings

http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1521

Supreme Leader’s Speech in a Meeting with President Ahmadinejad and Cabinet Members

Supreme Leader’s Speech in a Meeting with President Ahmadinejad and Cabinet Members
29/08/2011

The following is the full text of the speech delivered on August 29, 2011 by Ayatollah Khamenei the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution in a meeting with President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his cabinet members.

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Today's meeting was a very good meeting. I hope Allah the Exalted will bless your sincere efforts and intentions and your selfless statements. I hope this meeting can help all of us - all our people and government officials - to easily tread the path that lies in front of us, the path that is very glorious and of course difficult.

First of all, I would like to congratulate our honorable statesmen on Government Week, which is in remembrance of two of our great martyrs [Shahid Rajai and Shabid Bahonar]. I commemorate these two martyrs, who started important things in truly difficult times, and I ask Allah the Exalted to bestow the highest positions on them and on other martyrs.

I would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our dear people for their impressive presence in Quds Day rallies on Friday. This year's Quds Day was indeed a symbol of the presence and motives of the Iranian nation and this is what spreads hope in the region and makes nations resist.

I also deem it necessary to thank the administration for its services, some of which were mentioned in today's meeting. I would tell the honorable brothers and sisters who have attended this meeting that I personally asked Mr. President to have his esteemed ministers present a separate report of their area of responsibility. Well, this meeting was a good meeting and your reports were also good, documented, logical and statistical.

The point which I want to add is that in the numerous meetings which I have arranged with our prominent university and seminary figures on various levels, they have repeatedly complained about you honorable officials. They complain that you do not consult with them. This is a flaw that you have. I made the same point a few days ago in a meeting with university professors. In that meeting they made the same complaint repeatedly and I also pointed it out.

Well, today's meeting mainly revolves around economic issues, which happens to be the main issue of the country too. Economy is one of the important areas that is debated among government officials at different levels and among certain people who have complaints and criticisms. Explain and justify your economic measures to our prominent figures. Imagine that the esteemed Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance or the Governor of the Central Bank arranges a meeting with a large of number of academia. Among the questions and criticisms that are voiced in the meeting, there may be loaded questions and criticisms that are not professional, but it is all right. Among the 200, 300 or 500 people who attend the meeting, there may be 10 people who might voice such questions and criticisms. You should just go to the meeting, but you should not focus your attention on the ten people who have such questions and criticisms. You should simply focus your attention on the other 490 people and speak to them. Certain criticisms might be made in the meeting which might be useful to you. In this way the necessary cooperation will be created in the area of economic measures and issues related to labor, employment and other such things. I believe this is necessary. This is my advice to you.

I demand that the details of this meeting be made public. That is to say, each and every one of the reports which were presented by the esteemed ministers and deputies of the President should be reflected in the media so that the people can listen to them. However, I would tell you that the numbers and statistics would not stick in the minds of ordinary citizens. Professionals will make better use of these statistics and they will make inferences on the basis of your statistics. You should go to these professionals and you should discuss these things. Most probably they will provide you with feedback. They may make a valid criticism and this is something that will help you. This is my advice to you and I emphasize it. We must not just wait for the President to arrange meetings with our prominent figures. Ministers can do this too. Of course it would be very good if the esteemed President was present in the meetings with our prominent figures.

Now I would like to offer a few recommendations. I have always repeated these recommendations and I will just emphasize them in this meeting. The slogans of the ninth and tenth administrations have been attractive to our faithful people. Promoting justice, fighting arrogance, propagating simple lifestyles, countering aristocratic manners, opposing special privileges, combating favoritism in economic and non-economic matters and rendering sincere services are some of the examples. You know that these slogans were the reason why our people supported this administration and the President both in the year 1384 and in the year 1388. That is to say, the people love these slogans. They feel the need for these slogans. Therefore, you should not give up these slogans. One of the most essential slogans was commitment to the principles and values that our magnanimous Imam introduced into our society. As it happens, these slogans were also the reason why the Islamic Revolution became popular in the world. That is to say, our magnanimous Imam became popular in the world and among other nations although we did not have any propaganda tools. We neither used the necessary propaganda techniques, nor did we know how to do so. This popularity was because of the slogans, attitudes and orientations. The fact that you stand up against the power of the camp of arrogance - which is currently represented by America and global Zionism - brings about respect and popularity for you. It creates hope in the hearts of other nations. We must not give up these slogans. Take care not to let your methods, statements, attitudes and performance work against these slogans.

Work for the sake of God. You should not do something simply because the people love it. If the goal is defined as attracting the hearts of the people, we will fail. "I will definitely shatter the hope of those who pin their hopes on somebody other than Me." As far as I remember, this is a well-documented qudsi hadith which quotes God. We should pin our hopes on God and we should work for the sake of Him. But we know that working for the sake of God attracts hearts. These slogans are divine slogans. If this commitment to the slogans is undermined, divine blessings will stop. Many of the achievements that you have accomplished in the arena of executive work and all the achievements that we have made since the beginning of the Revolution are due to divine blessings and assistance. If we do not work for the sake of God, these achievements will be taken away from us. You should maintain your enthusiasm, efforts and sincere services without expecting anything in return. This is an essential point.

I said earlier in a meeting with our government officials that you should tell the people both your strengths and your weaknesses. This is important and effective. This is the second point. Among the reports that were presented today, I noticed that certain people indirectly mentioned the weak points, saying that certain things remain to be done. They were suggesting that they have failed to do certain things. Just say these things explicitly. Say, "We should have done this, but we could not." Nobody will criticize you simply because you did not manage to do something. For example, tell the people that you have done 10 things, but that you have not managed to do 2, 3 or 5 other things, which you are planning to do. Say this explicitly. Nothing is wrong with this. Do not be afraid that a certain critic - who might also bear some grudges against you - may use your comments to prove his point. Let him do that. What is wrong with it? Just say, "Yes, the criticism that has been leveled against us is valid." Acknowledge the flaws, but tell the people that you are planning to eliminate them. Announce that you have done certain things and that you are planning to do certain other things. This is my advice to you.

Of course you can adopt two different approaches to the criticisms that are leveled against the administration in the media, newspapers and certain official centers. One approach is to justify and explain your measures, which is good. The other approach is to adopt a hostile attitude, which is not good. You should not think that simply because the administration is faced with hostile and spiteful criticisms, you should respond in the same way. No, you should explain and clarify. Clarification is necessary and the right way is to explain things in your meetings with the people. You should let them ask questions and then you should present answers and explanations. And your answers should be reported in the media. If you manage to clarify well, ulterior motives of spiteful people will not get them anywhere.

I would like to add another point in this regard. One of the weaknesses is the failure to get the priorities right. One of the gentlemen rightly pointed out that it is necessary to follow up the projects which have not been finished. This is a very good point. It is necessary to do this. I have always emphasized this point. However, you should assign a task force to prioritize the projects which have not been finished. The gentleman said that a specific number of projects have been left unfinished. But which of these projects are a priority? Which of them have been promised more? In other words, which of them do the people expect to be done first? You should specify these things. You should work on them. You should prioritize certain unfinished projects over new projects. It would be very good if all the promises made by the administration were fulfilled. If a promise is made to the people but it is not fulfilled, it will create problems, not just for the administration, but for the entire system.

Mr. President pointed out that the administration is criticized for having raised the level of public expectations. The fact that public expectations have risen is not because you have acknowledged your weaknesses. Expectations rise because of promises. If we manage to keep the promises we make to the people, their expectations will turn into faith and confidence. This is good. We should keep the promises that we have made to the people so that they can see our promises have been fulfilled. Today I noticed that your statistics were comparative, which is very good and appropriate. You should also compare the promises that have been made with the things that have actually been done. Calculate a percentage so we can see what the situation is like. This is very important.

The issue of economic jihad is the next point that I would like to discuss. This issue has been repeatedly discussed and the friends who spoke in this meeting also mentioned it. The reasons behind naming this year "The Year of Economic Jihad" should be clear to you government officials. I believe economic jihad is a necessity for the country, not just a priority. It is an absolute necessity. First of all, economic progress and boom are directly linked to living conditions of the people, an issue which has always been one of the most important goals of all governments in all parts of the world throughout history. Of course this only applies to governments that care about their people, not bullying and oppressive governments. Any government that is determined to render services to its people has to consider living conditions of its people as the most important issue. Well, this depends on the economy of the country. A good, healthy and thriving economy can improve living conditions of the people. This is one reason why we should engage in economic jihad.

Reaching the goals specified in the 20-Year Strategic Plan is another issue. The strategic plan specifies the goals. It is a high-level document. We should definitely pay attention to it. We will not achieve the goals specified in the strategic plan in the absence of economic jihad. According to the strategic plan, Iran should turn into the most powerful economy in the region. If we fall behind in this race, we will be harmed. I said before in another meeting that this is not a matter of keeping up with our neighbors in the region. The issue is that at this point if a country falls behind in this general challenge and in this arena of action which involves governments, its rights will be trampled upon. We want to make economic progress and achieve the goals specified in the strategic plan because if we fail to reach that point, our nation and country will receive powerful blows. We will probably receive fatal blows. We need to reach that point. Considering the slogans that we are shouting and the goals of the Islamic Revolution, there is no other option. The truth is that the Islamic Republic has challenged the order of arrogance, domination and sacrilege. This is a movement that has already started. Being defeated in this arena will bring about irreparable damage and the consequences will not be limited to our nation. Therefore, we must definitely achieve victory in this arena. It is not possible to win such a victory with these tools. We need different other tools as well. One of these tools is economic progress.

Another issue is that today the enemies of the Islamic Republic and the Iranian nation are using economic tools against us. The sanctions which were mentioned in this meeting are an example. Of course I deem it necessary to thank the people who are working hard to make the sanctions ineffective. It is necessary to use all the correct, logical, clever and wise techniques in this regard. You should make use of such techniques and make the sanctions ineffective. Make the actions of the enemy ineffective - the enemy that is big in size, yet not so powerful. The bulky economy and military of the arrogant powers standing against us remind me of "Tom and Jerry" cartoons! They are like Tom. They do a lot of things, make a lot of noise and are big in size, but the result of their actions is not as good as expected. This is really the case. Everything depends on your cleverness.

They were speaking about smart and crippling sanctions, but we see that their sanctions were neither so smart nor so crippling. The same sanctions caused us to become self-sufficient in many areas. They encouraged us to increase our scientific activities. They led to great achievements in manufacturing industrial, military and other products in the country. They encouraged us to invent new ways of countering these sanctions.

You should know that these sanctions will be rendered ineffective. They will not be able to continue this behavior for a long time. This is not possible. That is to say, the world will not accept this behavior. Today the world is not listening to America even if it sends special envoys to different countries and reproaches them. This situation will continue for a while, but it cannot continue for a long time. Of course as I said a few months ago, what they used to call crippling sanctions in the beginning of this year was expected to show its crippling effects in 3 or 4 months. This was what they expected. More than 4 months have passed since then, but not only did the sanctions fail to become crippling, they also led to increased activity in the country. This is the reason why economic jihad is necessary. That is to say, a selfless, purposeful and clever movement should be started in the country while relying on Allah the Exalted and having confidence in divine assistance.

One instance of this economic jihad is the economic overhaul bill which was proposed by the administration two, three years ago. One article of the bill was about subsidy redistribution, which was thankfully operationalized after the necessary laws were passed in the Majlis. Of course I have a question about helping production. The gentlemen who spoke in this meeting said certain things in their reports, but the bill that was passed in order to help production has not been implemented yet. You should help production. Of course these production centers will manage to stand on their own feet in the long run and by Allah's favor, they will manage to become stronger on a daily basis, but in the short run it is necessary to provide these centers with the resources they need. It goes without saying that you must seriously counter those who cheat by getting loans from the bank and spending them on something other than production. You should not have mercy on them. But wherever you are needed, you should really go and help. Therefore, as far as the subsidy redistribution plan is concerned, the production sector should definitely be taken into consideration.

The other parts of the economic overhaul plan should also be taken into consideration. One of these parts is about our customs service. One of the gentlemen said in his report that a bill has been submitted to the Majlis in this regard. Another part of the economic overhaul plan was about financial and banking policies of the country. All the five, six parts of the overhaul plan must be implemented. Set things in motion in the remaining part of your term so that others can continue your work later on. That is to say, do not leave things unfinished. Two years is not enough to do these things. Even the initiative to redistribute state subsidies is not finished and it will have to go through different stages. You started the work and moved forward and by doing so, you finished the job in a sense. Starting something is in a sense equivalent to finishing it only if the start is made in a correct and principled way.

Of course the issue of imports, which was mentioned in one of the reports, is among my concerns. The report might be accurate, but judging by what can be observed, the situation is a little disturbing. The growth rate of the proportion of imports to exports might have slowed down and this is a positive sign, but we must not feel satisfied and stop trying. Particularly we must try to avoid importing agricultural products as much as we can. Go after industrialization of agricultural exports, which was mentioned in the reports as well. These are important things. By Allah's favor, you will focus your attention on these areas. The people will tolerate and they will accept your decisions.

Therefore, you should make a major revision regarding our import policies, particularly in the areas in which we enjoy a production advantage - both in industrial and agricultural areas. We must seriously avoid allowing each public sector to import according to its needs.

The next point is related to culture, not economic matters. Today no reports were presented about cultural matters: they were postponed to another meeting. I deem it necessary to advise our government officials to take the issue of culture very seriously. If we engage in economic activities as we have planned but fall behind in the area of cultural work, I ensure you that the country will be harmed. Our economy is one of the areas that our enemies have targeted. Another important area is our culture. Of course there is not enough time to discuss the issue in detail and this meeting is not appropriate for that purpose. However, all the friends should pay attention to the point that considering our revolutionary and Islamic orientations, cultural work is very important. Do not stand on ceremony when it comes to culture. In all cultural matters - including books, artistic works and cultural organizations - make your orientations revolutionary and Islamic. Take the priorities into consideration in cultural matters as well because our resources are limited. Of course the administration has proposed a good budget for cultural affairs although I heard that a large portion of the proposed budget has not been approved. Even if the proposed budget had been approved, it would not be sufficient for all the cultural activities we have in mind. I presented a number of suggestions to the administration. I suggested that if certain things were taken into consideration in cultural matters, there would be certain priorities. That is to say, certain things would be more significant. You should pursue these priorities and try to actualize them.

There is another issue which I will try to outline in this meeting. Considering all the duties that the administration has to shoulder, you should take care not to get involved in problematic side issues. The administration is making efforts. We are in need of hard work and thankfully the ground has been prepared for this. Well, the ground has been prepared, there is a pressing need for hard work and the administration has shown that it is prepared to take risks and step into the arena of hard work with all its heart and soul. Considering these conditions, it really inappropriate to fuel side issues - both the side issues that you occasionally create because of lack of care and the ones that other people create and get you involved. It is necessary to avoid these side issues. Do not let conflicts and tensions be created in the general atmosphere of the country and between the people and government officials, conflicts and tensions that might prevent you from making efforts.

My advice is that you should pay attention to a few points regarding nationalistic tendencies. One point is that Persian language and literature are the most important part of our nationalism. Love for Iran would be realized in this way. We have different languages in the country, but Farsi is our national language. Those who speak other languages are among the most fervent promoters of the Persian language. The best articles on the Persian language have been written by Azeri speakers. I know this for a fact. [A government official interrupts and says that the same is true of Kurdish people.] Hopefully Kurdish people write such articles as well. I would not object. I welcome it. Prominent Azeri researchers of the country have written the best and the most influential articles on the Persian language over the past decades. Therefore, it is wrong to think that Farsi is not the symbol of Iranian nationalism - it definitely is. This issue should be highlighted.

Similarly it is necessary to highlight the post-Islamic era in Iran. The achievements that Iran has accomplished during the Islamic era are unprecedented in other eras of our history and this can be proven. Great conquests, great military victories, impressive scientific advances in different areas - all these things were achieved after Islam was introduced into our country. This is not to say that such things did not exist in Iran before Islam, but those achievements were less than the achievements we made during the Islamic era. Of course certain claims are made about pre-Islamic Iran, but these claims are not supported by evidence and nobody has proven them. In fact these claims are not verifiable. But what has happened during the Islamic era can be proven. They are clear. Just notice how much military, scientific and cultural progress was made in the country during the time of the Deylamis, Seljuqs, Safavids and even during a certain period of the rule of the Mongols. After the Mongols came to Iran, they were influenced by the culture of Iran and became Iranian, just as they became Indian when they went to India. Notice how many outstanding scientific, cultural and artistic achievements have been made during the Islamic era. If somebody wants to support Iran and Iranian nationalism, the Islamic era is more documented, more acceptable and more evident. The books, architecture and scientific achievements of the Islamic era are more evident. The history of the Islamic era has been clearly recorded.

It appears that we are getting close to adhan. The last point is that you should resolve the issue of cooperation among the three branches of government. I often give this advice to all branches of government and I would offer the same advice to you. Try as much as you can to back down whenever you can. What is wrong with this? Explain things when it is possible for you to do so. Try to resolve the problems in a friendly way whenever you can. Why do I insist that the heads of the three branches of government should arrange meetings with each other? When such meetings are arranged, many of these problems can be resolved. This way they get the opportunity to sit down and speak to each other face to face. This can help resolve many of the problems. This is what I have learnt from experience. Let us assume that some of the methods tried by the friends have failed to produce the desired results in the past. It does not matter: there are other ways. After all, this is how differences of taste and different interpretations of the law are reconciled. Try to have a friendly relationship with other branches of government. If you notice a behavior which you do not like, you should consider your own behavior and see if you play a role in creating the problem. And if you realize that you are playing a role, you should put an end to it.

I will pray for our esteemed government officials, the heads of the three branches of government and each and every person who is playing a role in running the country. May Allah the Exalted increase His blessings on you so that you can do the duties that are expected of you in the best possible way. Make your intentions pure. Step into the arena of hard work in a sincere way. Do not at all let your efforts - which you have come to be known for - decrease.

Greetings be upon you and Allah's mercy and blessings

http://english.khamenei.ir//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1517