Would better relations with the U.S. help Iran?
AHMADINEJAD: It depends on the behavior of the U.S. government. We even asked for direct flights so people could commute more easily between our two countries. But the response was negative. The government of America sees itself as the owner of the whole world. It is mistaken. They should think about their own people. They too can be useful for their own people. Without harming the other nations. And without stepping on other’s rights. I think they should learn how. The letter I sent was to show this very way. TIME: In your letter to Americans, you said America is becoming weaker. Is Iran’s influence rising in the world? AHMADINEJAD: Our outlook toward the world affairs is not balance of power, but a humanitarian one. We are not seeking influence or domination. We respect all peoples and all nations. We think we can live in an atmosphere of friendship and brotherhood with all. There is no need for domination or influence. Of course, from the cultural point of view, we defend certain va
