American Iranian Friendship Council

Thursday, May 18, 2006

Invitation to Join AIFC

Dear Friend;

As you are most probably aware, Iran and the U.S. have not had official relations for the past 27 years. After the hostage crisis, President Carter discontinued diplomatic relations and in the following decades conflicts between the two countries were elevated due to other events and crises. The Iranian nuclear program and the failed negotiations with European countries (Germany, France and U.K.) have recently escalated the conflict to an all-time high, and the possibility of military engagement in Iran threatens the security of the whole region and peace at large.

We, as concerned Americans and Iranians living in Portland, feel the responsibility to take positive actions to help alleviate potential conflagration looming on the horizon. We have contemplated the formation of a local American Iranian Friendship Council, and now appeal to you for help in its formation. In the absence of a formal diplomatic relation, this council could capitalize on people’s diverse cultural interchanges in an effort to raise awareness about the current situation. We hope the council can assist in educating the communities at large in Oregon and Washington regarding the mutual benefits of earnestly searching for a peaceful resolution of the current conflicts.

At this time we extend an invitation to you to join us. Your presence will greatly empower this effort; please consider attending one of our meetings and giving us your suggestions and support.

American Iranian Friendship Council