Copenhagen, Dec 18, 2009

Today Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President of Iran, spoke at a press conference.

In response to my question about critics of nuclear power in the west who consider it as a false solution to climate change, Ahmadinejad defended nuclear power, describing it as cleaner than fossil fuels. He denounced nuclear weapons.

“Nuclear energy can be promising for all nations. It is a clean energy, it is also economically viable. And Iran … has the right to use this energy. In our planning we are going to generate 20,000 megawatts of energy through nuclear, as well as use isotopes for medical and pharmaceuticals”

“Those who pollute the most, they are the most demanding.”

The press conference began with a critique of both Marxism and Capitalism. He went on to talk of a new system which will emerge.

“Democracy and freedom which are the basis of human rights are subject to interpretation. In every place there is a different interpretation.”

“God has not created people for some countries to create and amass thousands of nuclear weapons and to impose their will on other countries. … We need fundamental changes, but real changes, that can influence our viewpoint and behavior. This will happen. And we are waiting for that bright future. the future that all human beings are respected. the rights of all nations are respected. Justice and friendship replaces all discrimination and implementation of force”.

“Climate change has inflicted serious damage. In one year our farmers suffered billions of dollars of damage… It was all because of climate change and our people have had no role in that.”

Report by James George