TEHRAN – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that culture is more powerful than weapon, noting media is a tool for promoting culture.

Rouhani made the remarks in a speech at the opening ceremony of the 22nd Press Exhibition in Tehran.

The president also praised the work of journalists, saying they lay the groundwork for development of society.

“Undoubtedly, media and those involved in it are involved in culture and link the public opinion with government and transfer the government’s view to the people and provide the ground for development,” he remarked.

The president added it is the “mission” of media to help maintain “national, social and internal security” and create a “calm” atmosphere in the society.

Rouhani also said the current insecurity in the region cannot be countered only through “weapon” and “diplomacy”.

Elsewhere, he said the people should “hear the voice of the country’s development”.

The president added boosting the integrity among the religious sects is required, highlighting the importance role of media role in this respect.

“If society is attracted to terrorism and people cherish the voice of the terrorists, neither foreign policy nor military power could provide security,” he pointed out.

‘The country is in new situation’

Rouhani went on to say that Iran has entered a new situation which should be used for progress.

“We are in post-JCPOA and post-sanctions situation and we should use this atmosphere and situation and move forward,” he noted.

Iran and the 5+1 group - the United States, Britain, France, China and Russia plus Germany - finalized the text of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action JCPOA in Vienna in July 2015 and the deal went into effect in January 2016.

NA/PA