Caspian Makin, fiancé of an Iranian protester who was brutally murdered, told President Peres on Monday, “I came to Israel as an ambassador of the Iranian people, as a messenger from the camp of peace." Makin, fiancé of the late Neda Soltan, whose death became a rallying point and symbol for the opposition, requested the meeting with President Peres.

“Neda was a progressive person, a freedom fighter, and these traits flowed through her veins," he told him. “She loved people with every small inch of her soul. Before her murder we spoke a lot about her goals, and we both knew the danger. After she was murdered, she became a symbol of freedom across the entire world. Her brave and firm protest brought unity to the Iranian people’s struggle and I hope that her actions will lead to change in the future.”

President Peres told Makin, “In Israel we feel a historic connection to the Iranian people. Iran is not [just about] enriched uranium, but rather a prosperous and ancient culture. The uprising of many Iranians restored the honor typical to this Iranian culture. More than an economic or military struggle, I see this struggle as a moral fight, and Neda was a brave soldier in that struggle."

“What happened to Neda proves that even if someone can murder a young, unarmed female, nobody can murder what she symbolized and represented. You can murder a person, but not a spirit.”

In a personal tone the president said to Makin, “I am so glad that you came to us. I know that you carry a burden of immense grief. It is not an easy thing for a loving person to lose his love; there is little consolation. Yet despite us being members of separate nations, you will feel and find in Israel a lot of friendship, warmth, and respect for your fight. I am glad you gave me the opportunity to express my condolences for your great tragedy, and also mention my great hope for the future.”

Makin said he was “very surprised” by the president’s comments, adding, “Your words express in the most beautiful way possible all the feelings I have saved in my heart. I am moved by my visit to Israel because this is a country managed well, a country which respects all its citizens. The Israeli people enjoy total freedom and this stands in stark contrast to what occurs under the Iranian regime and its leaders.”

Makin replied to the president, “I came to Israel as an ambassador of the Iranian people, as a messenger from the camp of peace. I have no doubt that the soul and spirit of Neda felt the sensitivity and warmth I received in this meeting. The fight will go on.”