The following are excerpts from a Friday sermon at Tehran University by Expediency Council head Ali-Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani:
'Ali Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani: This is a period which, in my opinion, shouldn't last more than six months – so they'll be reassured that Iran isn't seeking military [nuclear] matters, indeed, we are not. After that, we must act with seriousness, and determination to implement the plans for enrichment and use of the very important God-given gift - nuclear technology and science.
Our country is in a position to be an important center for the study of nuclear issues, and to help others in this field - for peaceful purposes.
Allah willing, we expect to soon join the club of the countries that have a nuclear industry, with all its branches, except the military one, in which we are not interested. We want to get what we're entitled to.
I say unequivocally that for no price will we be willing to relinquish our legal and international right. I also say unequivocally to those who make false claims: Iran is not pursuing nuclear weapons, but it will not give up its rights. Your provocation will not make us pursue nuclear weapons. We hope that you come to your senses soon and do not get the world involved in disputes and crises.