Tehran - Tehran has not officially reacted to Friday's offer by US President Barack Obama for a new start in relations with Iran, as the country celebrates the Persian New Year.

Obama early Friday offered a new start with Iran, saying the United States was committed to engagement, not threats, in its pursuit of diplomacy.

Obama made the remarks in a message for Nowruz, or the start of the Iranian year, broadcast by Voice of America's Persian News Network, which is widely viewed by satellite in Iran.

No official reaction is expected until later on Friday owing to the public holiday.

A presidential press advisor, who holds no official position, reacted coolly to the offer and just reiterated the stance of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad that the US should change its policies in practice before approaching Iran after three decades of diplomatic estrangement. (dpa)