UN chief congratulates Hasan Rowhani on election as President of Iran

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated Hasan Rowhani on his election as the next President of Iran, and commended the country's high turnout to the polls.

“The Secretary-General has been closely following the eleventh presidential election in Iran held on 14 June and notes with satisfaction the reported high turnout,” Mr. Ban's spokesperson said in a statement.

“He extends his warm congratulations to Mr. Hasan Rowhani, the confirmed winner.”

According to media reports, more than 70 per cent of some 50 million eligible voters took part on Friday's elections.

The statement said Mr. Ban intends to remain engaged with Iranian authorities and with the President-elect on issues relevant to the international community and the welfare of the Iranian people.

“[Mr. Ban] will continue encouraging Iran to play a constructive role in regional and international affairs,” the statement added.