Moving ahead on Iranian relations

Compared to what has come from Iran during most of the past 18 years, the TV interview with President Mohammed Khatami was a rare breath of fresh air. His call for dialogue and understanding between Americans and Iranians is a giant step forward from his predecessors and, indeed, from many Iranian leaders. It is also a given that if Iran's leader wants smoother sailing with America, he wants the same for the rest of the world.

Certainly the Iran-America rift has lasted far too long. Because both countries are large, powerful and influential, the split between them has affected most other nations of the world. The support of Iranian leaders for the most outrageous and violent political movements has set back world peace on several occasions. Iran's refusal to compromise on issues such as the Mideast have caused suffering.

America's initial reaction to Mr. Khatami's speech was positive, as it deserved. It is understandable that the U.S. government would like to hold direct talks with Mr. Khatami's regime. The Iranians who oppose the president are still important players, however. It is easy to see why Mr. Khatami might want to go more slowly. A dramatic breakthrough in U.S.-Iran relations would be nice, but steady progress is almost as welcome.

-- The Bangkok Post