TEHRAN – In a Monday meeting with senior managers of American media outlets in New York, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the false and negative image that Western media has often projected about Iran.

He emphasized that the country possesses a rich civilization spanning thousands of years, which is frequently misrepresented in Western narratives. "We are ready to live peacefully and securely with the entire world and are not seeking unrest or undermining the position of our people," Pezeshkian stated. 

Western media is notorious for the Islamophobic coverage of affairs in West Asia. American media, especially, is often criticized for demonizing Iran and its allies in Israel’s favor. 

During his meeting with media representatives, Pezeshkian outlined a vision for regional cooperation, stating, "Our priority in relations with foreign countries is first and foremost our neighbors, so we can reach a clear framework regarding the preservation of each other's borders and territories." He emphasized that any actions threatening the internal security of nations should be prevented through collaboration with neighboring states.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian president expressed hope for a shift from conflict to cooperation, stating, "Instead of killing each other and fighting, we work towards welfare and security in all parts of the world." He reiterated his commitment to fostering unity across different political factions, ethnicities, and genders within different parts of the region.  

Pezeshkian also called for unity and cohesion within Iran, stressing the importance of maintaining domestic harmony while fostering positive relations with neighboring countries. "We need to maintain unity domestically and establish constructive interactions with the outside world," he asserted. 

The president is in New York to attend the 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Before leaving Tehran to appear at the UN headquarters, Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to peace and security in comments to Iranian reporters. 

As reported by IRNA, Pezeshkian stated that Iran's commitment to peace and security aligns with the United Nations' mission of fostering a future characterized by development for all. He advocated for the creation of a world free from bloodshed, war, and violence, where individuals can live in comfort regardless of their color, race, ethnicity, or origin. 

Iran’s president also lamented the current state of the world, highlighting the existence of double standards that categorize some as good and others as bad, which contribute to the challenges faced today. “Every individual on this planet should have equal opportunities,” he remarked.

Pezeshkian arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Sunday night, where he was greeted by several Iranian diplomats, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who had arrived in New York on Friday night.

During his three-day visit to New York, the Iranian president plans to engage with various world leaders, officials from other nations, religious figures, as well Iranian expatriates. This is Pezeshkian’s second foreign visit after traveling to neighboring Iraq earlier this month.