Ellison Statement On Obama-Rouhani Phone Call

Statement

Rep. Keith Ellison released the following statement today after President Obama announced he held a phone call with Iran's President Rouhani:

"President Obama and President Rouhani should be commended for taking the bold step yesterday to reestablish dialogue between the United States and Iran. I have long supported renewed diplomatic contact with Iran and last month called for an Obama-Rouhani summit. Both leaders should be congratulated for breaking the 34-year impasse between our countries.

"For too long, a lack of dialogue and outright antagonism have characterized U.S.-Iranian relations. The differences between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran are well known. Now the door has opened for the opportunity that constructive dialogue will bring. Iran is an extremely important country in the region and in the world. In addition to negotiations on the nuclear issue, I hope we can build upon this diplomatic opening to address the war in Syria and sectarianism across the region."

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