US invites Iran to 4 July events
SOURCE: BBC (6-2-09)
For the first time since 1980, the US has authorised its embassies around the world to invite Iranian diplomats to Independence Day receptions.
The move is part of a new policy of engagement with Iran under President Barack Obama's administration.
The decision to invite Iranian diplomats to an American reception is a symbolic gesture but it puts an end to almost 30 years of a US policy discouraging even informal contacts with Iranian officials.
It is not yet known whether Iranians from Tehran's interest section in Washington will be invited to the 4 July reception at the State Department.
The move is part of a new policy of engagement with Iran under President Barack Obama's administration.
The decision to invite Iranian diplomats to an American reception is a symbolic gesture but it puts an end to almost 30 years of a US policy discouraging even informal contacts with Iranian officials.
It is not yet known whether Iranians from Tehran's interest section in Washington will be invited to the 4 July reception at the State Department.
Source:
BBC
Source URL:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8080239.stm
Date:
6-2-09
