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First Conversation Between Presidents of America & Iran Since 1979 a Potential “Nixon in China” Moment, Garamendi Says

September 27, 2013

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA), a Member of the House Armed Services Committee and a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, issued the following statement after President Barack Obama had a phone conversation with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, the first conversation between leaders of the two countries since 1979:

“This week’s events provide a window into the promise of diplomacy to advance American values and interests. When we engage in good faith diplomacy, the world can change for the better.

“Days ago, the U.S. and Russia reached an agreement on Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile that can advance both our humanitarian and our security needs – without a costly war. Today’s groundbreaking conversation between the Presidents of America and Iran is an important first step toward possible diplomatic resolution to our disagreements. Historians may look back on this day and see parallels with ‘Nixon in China.’

“I hope this is the first step toward an Iran that unambiguously and transparently disavows nuclear weapons and an Iran that wants to be a responsible player on the international stage. If so, our thawing relationship holds much promise for a more peaceful world and a better way of life for the Iranian people. President Obama deserves a lot of credit for his willingness to give diplomacy a chance. Let’s keep an open but skeptical mind and give President Rouhani a chance to prove that his country will not develop nuclear weapons. We must remember President Reagan’s counsel: ‘Trust but verify.’”