Iran Presidency of the NAM: An Opportunity for Promotion of ‎National Security and the Effective Role of Non-aligned ‎Movement

The inauguration of the NAM summit in Tehran in the summer of 2012, in a time that sanctions and pressures against the Islamic Republic of Iran are intensified and in a situation that the Middle East is facing a critical socio/political change and transformation, is of great importance for Iran in regional and international arena. The slogan of the summit was “Lasting Peace through Joint Global Governance.” This summit included three major functions: First, Promotion of Iran’s role in resolution of international issues and conflicts which were thoroughly discussed at the Summit. Second, to promote Iran’s regional role; and third, contribution to support the aims of Iran’s foreign policy in areas such as nuclear issue and measures against Western sanctions. The present article aims to assess the opportunities provided by Iran’s presidency over the NAM. While this presidency is a good opportunity for Iran to boost its national interests, it could also be a new beginning for a round of effective, innovative, and decisive role for NAM in international arena and promotion of security of its member states.