Tehran Mayor Qalibaf says Iran needs better dialogue with the world

TOKYO, Oct. 19 Kyodo - Tehran Mayor Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, widely seen as one of the possible contenders in Iran's presidential election next year, said in Tokyo on Sunday Iran must make more efforts to foster mutual trust with the international community, including engaging in dialogue with the world in ''a better way.''

Speaking to Kyodo News during his visit in Japan, Qalibaf expressed his
dissatisfaction with the current Iranian foreign policy by saying, ''We should
show clearly, through the IAEA, that we are developing nuclear programs within
the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.''
He was referring to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
''At the same time, Iran should also make more efforts to build trust. There is
a better way for dialogue with the world,'' the mayor said.
On the other hand, he also criticized the United States for posing a ''double
standard,'' pointing at Washington's support for other nuclear states that are
not signatories of the NPT and implicitly referring to the U.S.-India civilian
nuclear deal.
Qalibaf, who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2005, remained tight-lipped on
whether he will throw his hat in the race next June.
On domestic affairs, he criticized the central government's economic policies
and said too many imports and the failure to improve productivity have resulted
in a severe crisis of inflation.
''The president and I are good friends as we have worked together before,''
Qalibaf said. ''It is exactly because I have respect for him that I criticize
his mistakes.''
The mayor said his visit to Japan served as an opportunity to learn from
Japan's experience and know-how in dealing with earthquakes. He also said
Tehran looks forward to further cooperation with Tokyo in city planning and the
sharing of other expertise.
==Kyodo