Ahmadinejad made the remarks in a cabinet meeting in the northern province of Golestan, referring to the people's high status in view of history, culture as well as material and spiritual talents in different scenes.



He further noted that they played decisive role in the victory of the Islamic Revolution of Iran and the sacred defense, US-backed imposed war on Iran (1980-1988).



The region has always benefited from Iran's people and Islamic system, and taken steps to uphold revolutionary values, he added.



Ahmadinejad went on to say that Golestani people have always fulfilled their responsibility to the country in critical situations and stood up to the enemies' threats.



This is the land of great scholars and faithful persons, he said, thanking the Golestani people for their hospitality.

Tehran, May 15, IRNA