Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran’s new foreign minister, says the events in Egypt will be at the top of his ministry’s agenda.

The Mehr News Agency quotes Zarif saying that maximum consultation must take place to prevent further spilling of blood and to allow the peaceful coming together of different groups in Egypt.

Zarif said Iran will not simply react to international affairs, adding that under his watch, he plans to transform the country into an active player on the international scene.

He recognized the “heavy burden” of dealing with international sanctions and emphasized that every effort will be made to relieve the pressure borne by Iranians.

Mohammad Javad Zarif officially takes over the foreign ministry from Ali Akbar Salehi on Saturday August 17.
(Radio Zamaneh)