“Iranians Said No to Increased Handouts despite Financial Woes”

Iranian First Vice-President Es’haq Jahangiri says Iranians refused to receive larger amount of cash subsidies, a campaign promise made by some of the presidential candidates contending May 19 election, and that was a historic event.

This came as many people in Iran were living in poor economic conditions with difficulties and did not earn a good livelihood, he added.

Jahangiri said those who do not respect people’s vote will definitely have to bear the consequences of their undesirable behaviour.

“Among the shortcomings in May 19 elections was that people had to wait for a long time in queues at the entrance of the polling stations before they could cast their ballots. To eliminate this shortcoming, we are required to come up with an effective solution and revise some of the election laws and regulations.”

He stressed that despite numerous nasty behaviours and remarks as well as immoral acts and comments by some prior to the election, Iran’s re-elected President Hassan Rouhani managed to receive a significant number of votes from Iranian voters.

“The message behind the choice made by the Iranian people in the election is clear. A right interpretation is required to be made of the people’s choice [and its message]. We should avoid simply overlooking the message conveyed by this vote.”

The first vice president said creating 1 million jobs per annum is a herculean task which requires professionals and certain prerequisites.

“As stipulated in the Sixth Five-Year Economic Development Plan (2017-22), to create 950,000 jobs we have to attract $65 billion worth of foreign investment. This is one of these particular requisites.”

He expressed optimism that President Rouhani’s promise to eradicate extreme poverty in Iran will be fulfilled by the end of the 12th government’s term in office (2021).