Iranian people have expressed the hope for further domestic economic development, more cooperation and exchanges with the rest of the world, and global peace and prosperity ahead of the Nowruz, or the Iranian New Year.

The Nowruz is a festival based on the spring equinox, which marks the first day of the new year in the Iranian Solar Hijri calendar. It falls on Wednesday (March 20) this year.
It is a tradition for people to start preparations for various celebrations, including flocking to do shopping at local markets. They also expressed their wishes for Iran and the whole world in the new year.
"I wish a happy new year for all. I also hope our economy can improve and young people can live a better life," said Zahra who lives in Tehran.
"I hope countries in the world can be more closely connected and have more exchanges. Besides, we should put love, family and friendship in the first place in our life," said Rezaul, another Tehran resident.
Given the turbulent international situation and intense conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Hamas, peace has topped the New Year wishes sent by Iranians.
"This is a blessing for all mankind. May their country prosper. I hope there will be no war and people can be more kind and friendly to each other," said a Tehran resident named Giti.
"I wish peace and tranquility in the world and there will be no more tension and humanitarian problems in the new year, such as the lack of medicine. As for regional conflicts, I wish peace can come soon, and those responsible for these tragedies must put an end to the fightings," said Iraj, another Tehran resident.