President Pezeshkian to National Team: Fight with all your might for Iran’s glory
Tehran - BORNA - During the visit on Wednesday, President Pezeshkian met with players, coaching staff, and football federation officials to oversee the team's final preparations. He underscored that while results are a product of will and planning, the nation expects its representatives to stand honorably and compete with maximum effort.
Highlighting the role of sports in strengthening social capital and national pride, the President stated: "What matters to us is sincere struggle, responsible effort, and the utilization of all capacities for the pride of our beloved Iran. Winning is valuable, but what remains lasting is the spirit of fighting, honor in competition, and preserving national dignity."
Reflecting on his administration's approach to governance, Pezeshkian noted that merit—not ethnicity, language, religion, or political affiliation—is the sole criterion for excellence. "Piety in governance means making the right decisions, taking timely action, avoiding errors, and moving in the direction of national interests," he added.
President Pezeshkian pointed to the external pressures and hostile actions faced by the nation in recent years, noting that enemies often target Iran's scientific, cultural, and athletic symbols of hope to disrupt the country's progress. He criticized the double standards of certain global powers, stating, "Those who are blatant violators of human principles and international rules today claim to be defenders of human rights."
Addressing domestic challenges, the President acknowledged the public's grievances and emphasized the government's duty to be accountable. However, he warned that the Iranian people clearly distinguish between genuine internal demands and the "hypocritical claims" of enemies seeking political dominance. "They may dream of the Iranian nation surrendering or bowing their heads, but that will never happen," he asserted.
The President reassured the athletes of the government's total support, pledging to provide all necessary resources for their success. "You are more than just a sports team; you are representatives of the hope, will, and unity of the Iranian people in a global arena," he told the players.
During the ceremony, the national team’s number 12 jersey was presented to President Pezeshkian as a symbol of his support. Prior to the President's remarks, Minister of Sport and Youth, Ahmad Dunyamali, reported on the team's preparation process, noting that despite media and political pressures aimed at undermining the team, the players remain more determined than ever to defend the name of Iran.
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