Rouhani says sanctions are harmful for the environment of Iran

The international sanctions imposed on Iran over its nuclear program have harmful effects on the environment of the country, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stated, Iran's state television IRINN reports.

The country needs to repeal the "cruel sanctions" in order to solve their environmental problems, Rouhani said, noting that a solution to environmental problems requires investment, and when the sanctions are lifted the flow of investment into the country can resolve many problems, including in the environmental, industrial and banking spheres, Trend reports.

He also criticized the previous administration of the Islamic Republic because of neglect in relation to the seriousness of these issues.