Iran's newly elected president says he will follow a "path of moderation" and urges his country not to be held back by past policies, emphasizing messages from Western leaders since his victory that have brought hope of new openings with Tehran.

Speaking Monday at his first news conference since his surprise victory in Friday's vote, Hasan Rowhani described his election as opening a "new era" and said he would "follow the path of moderation and justice, not extremism."

Iran's president does not have powers to set policies, which are directed by the ruling clerics. But Rowhani's statements about outreach have been cautiously greeted by the U.S. and allies as a possible opportunity to ease tensions, led by disputes over Tehran's nuclear program.