Rouhani election a positive development: Ex-diplomats

Former foreign secretary Salman Haidar said,This is a good development,and reflects Irans urge to engage with the world. Now,there will be expectations of greater moderation and greater realism in dealing with the urgent needs of the people of Iran,since their economy is in a bad shape. Haidar felt that Rouhani,considered a liberal,will receive a more sympathetic hearing from the US. He said that since Iranians are good diplomats,and if they are given little opportunity and encouragement,there could be movement in Tehrans talks with the international community. Indias support for international relaxations,he said,is important since New Delhis interests are very clear: it wants closer economic relations. But that had been interrupted by economic sanctions and if there is some easing of sanctions,we will benefit, he added.

R S Kalha,who as secretary West in the MEA has dealt with Iran,was a bit circumspect. Although Rouhani has won the Presidential elections,we must remember that power on international affairs lies with Ayatollah Khomeini,the Supreme leader. Kalha,who has tracked Rouhanis campaign closely,said that he stands for a more liberal society, and is an advocate of gender equality and civil rights charter. Overall,Rouhanis election will be change in nuance,but not in substance, he said.

Swashpawan Singh,who has served in the MEAs Iran division and shaped Indias foreign policy in the Gulf region,said that Rouhanis election shows that there is a broader support for greater re-engagement with the world. This is quite significant,Singh said,since former Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was limited in his outlook and strident in his public expressions. Much will depend on what kind of team Rouhani puts together, he added.