Nowruz Message from the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Finland

In the name of the God, the Creator of Spring, Blossoming and Hope

Dear Iranian compatriots residing in Finland;

Together with you, dear ones, we celebrate the arrival of Nowruz; this ancient tradition and messenger of peace, friendship and renewal;

Nowruz, is a cultural manifestation that calls humans toward hope, solidarity and regeneration;

However, as you are well aware, this year, we celebrate Nowruz under different circumstances;

Today, our beloved Iran is facing an imposed war and military and terrorist aggression by the enemies of peace and friendship. In this regard, it must be clearly emphasized:

Throughout centuries, Iran has never initiated a war nor invaded any country.

Nevertheless, what is happening today is a legitimate and inevitable defense.  Defense based on the recognized principles of international law, and in accordance with all human and moral standards, against the imposed war and aggression imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime on our beloved Iran, the region, and even world peace;

Meanwhile, the Iranian nation, with its exemplary unity and solidarity, stands with one voice and firmness in defending its homeland;

At these moments, we honor the memory of the martyred leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, His Highness the Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei;

A man who stood until his last breath, for the independence, freedom, progress, development, and strength of Iran;

And never surrendered to the bullying and intimidation of the aggressors;

And finally, along with a group of his beloved family members and the brave commanders of the armed forces, he achieved the grace of martyrdom;

Also, We honor the eternal memory of the martyrs of the recent military aggression;

Especially the innocent children and women whose martyrdom awakens the conscience of every independent and noble human being;

Nowruz in such times gains a deeper meaning: Nowruz in the midst of hardships means understanding the ancient secret of the land of Iran; how we sprout from the heart of cold, and bring forth greenery from drought;

As the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Finland, I emphasize the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and human relations among nations; while also insisting on the right of nations to defend their independence, dignity, and homeland; 

To the dear people of Finland, I say:

The Iranian nation is a nation that has always been a messenger of culture, peace, and friendship throughout history; yet in the face of aggression and injustice, it has stood and will stand with dignity and resilience; 

And to my dear Iranian compatriots in this land, I also say:

You are the embodiment of Iranian culture and identity; and today, more than ever, your role in demonstrating unity, wisdom, and national solidarity is valuable and impactful;

We Iranians are linage of the spring;

Of those who create light in the heart of darkness, and keep hope alive in the hardest days. And this eternal verse by the eloquent poet, Hakim Abolqasem Ferdowsi, remains our covenant with our beloved Iran: 

“If there is no Iran, may my body not exist;

 May not a single soul live upon this land and soil” 

May Nowruz be a blessed and prosperous holiday for you, my dear ones. 

Javad Aghazadeh

Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Finland