Tehran (IP) - The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council said no matter who would be elected as president, the participation of the people in the election was of paramount importance.

Iran PressIran news: Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani said on Friday that any step taken to increase people's participation in the elections as the symbol of democracy was considered as an action toward the increase of the Islamic Republic's authority, security, and legitimacy.

Shamkhani referred to the participation of people as a necessary condition for the progress and development of Iran and the improvement of the country's position in the world.

He expressed hope that after the president is elected, all political groups and factions would be mobilized to support and assist him in developing the country and removing the people's problems.

Iran's 2021 presidential elections have started nationwide, with nearly 60 million Iranians eligible to vote for one of four candidates running.

Polls opened at 07:00 am local time on Friday, June 18, and will run until 12:00 am on Saturday, and for two more hours then, if necessary.

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