Hassan Rouhani vows to pull Iran out of diplomatic isolation

Hassan Rouhani, who has been sworn in as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran for a second term, has vowed to pull the country out of diplomatic isolation. His inauguration takes place a day after US President Donald Trump expanded sanctions against the theocratic nation for its missile programmes.

The country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei endorsed Rouhani, a 68-year-old moderate cleric. Top-ranking military and political authorities were present at the ceremony on Thursday, 3 August as Rouhani, who won a landslide victory in the May elections, was inaugurated.

"We will never accept isolation. The nuclear deal is a sign of Iran's goodwill on the international stage," said the Iranian president. "I declare once again that with the election concluded, the time for unity and cooperation has begun. I extend my hand to all those who seek the greatness of the country," Rouhani said.

Rouhani had played a key role in sealing Iran's landmark nuclear deal with world powers in 2015 which led to lifting of severe economic sanctions on the country. Rouhani will have to present his cabinet to the Iranian parliament for ratification within two weeks of his inauguration.

By convention, the president-elect requires the supreme leader's approval prior to being sworn in before parliament. Khamenei has so far inaugurated four leaders in seven presidential terms.

"It is one of the most important and fundamental capabilities of our dear Islamic country – one of its countless capabilities which makes the achievement of lofty revolutionary ideals possible, a harbinger of a bright future for the country and for the nation," said Khamenei, who wields the highest political authority in Iran.