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Hoping to end nearly three decades of distrust and strained ties, US President Barack Obama reached out on Friday to the Iranian people, saying the US wants to have "honest" engagement with the Islamic Republic but made it clear that this process will not be advanced by threats.
In a surprise video message with Farsi subtitles on the eve of Iranian New Year festival of Nowroz, Obama said his administration was committed to pursuing "constructive" ties among the US, Iran and the international community.
"This process will not be advanced by threats. We seek instead engagement that is honest and grounded in mutual respect," Obama said outlining his administration's new approach towards Tehran, indicating a distinct shift from the hardline pursued by the previous administrations.
Stating that he would like to speak clearly to Iran's leaders "in this season of new beginnings", Obama said, "we have serious differences that have grown over time. My administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us, and to pursuing constructive ties among the United States, Iran and the international community." The two nations have not had diplomatic ties since1980.