President congratulates counterparts on Norouz

In his messages to counterparts in the Republic of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Kirgizstan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Armenia and India, President Rouhani described peace and unity as the determination of moderate nations that celebrate Norouz.

“In the light of love, affection and intimacy, the world is in dire need of hope today, more than ever, to invite other countries to interaction rather than confrontation,” the message read.

“Resorting to hope, peace and unity in light of interaction with each other, nations can tackle terrorism which is originated from ethnic extremism,' the President said in his message.

He also wished a year full of joy and happiness for the nations that celebrate Norouz.

Millions of people of Iran and a number of other countries in the rgion are to celebrate beginning of the New Year, 1396, within hours today.

It is celebrated by more than 300 million people worldwide on the day of the spring Equinox, which marks the sun’s crossing of the Equator and the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

9060**1394