TEHRAN - Saleh Adibi is the first Iranian diplomat from the Sunni minority.

In an interview with the Iran daily published Saturday, Adibi said his selection as ambassador will find good resonance in the international arena, carrying the message that the Iranian government respects diversity and religious minorities.

He said the government chose him ambassador in consultation with provincial religious figures. Adibi comes from Kurdistan province.

The incoming Iranian ambassador to Cambodia and Vietnam said he will be off to his commissioned place next month.

SP/PA