These speeches are perhaps especially significant because they were made to groups that are not necessarily identified with reform. All his comments explicitly indicated his belief that this was how the system would be strengthened and sustained. Khatami addressed the Publicity Bureau of the Qom Theological Seminary on 15 August. He urged the clerics to rise above differences of opinion and not represent or identify with a specific viewpoint.
Diversity is necessary for the growth and survival of the Islamic system.
On 19 August Khatami addressed a gathering of Basij commanders. The Basij forces, standing alongside the Law Enforcement Forces, demonstrated courage, firmness, and initiative. They demonstrated the power and potency of the system, and they also revealed the self-restraint exercised by the system. Finally, Khatami urged the Basij to remain above factionalism and to identify with the public. These two speeches, meant primarily for diverse domestic audiences, show Khatami's overall objectives for Iran.