In an open letter to the press, 57 economists say the president’s policies have led to the country’s isolation, discouraged foreign investments and dampened trade whilst pushing inflation to 20 per cent.

Tehran (AsiaNews/Agencies) – In an open letter to newspapers 57 Iranian economists blamed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s economic policies for soaring inflation (almost 20 per cent) and increased poverty.

The letter said that the president has ignored the country’s economic problems and his government's handling of foreign policy—his infamous calls for  Israel to be wiped off the map and the regime’s controversial nuclear programme—has added to its economic woes.

UN sanctions against Iran's nuclear programme have resulted in foreign investment and trade drying up, the group said.

The letter is a sign of growing dissent and dissatisfaction within Iran at Mr Ahmadinejad and his failure to live up to promises he made during the last presidential election of better economic conditions.

The largely state-controlled economy is in fact badly managed, rife with corruption and speculation, and affected by systemic high inflation.

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