Iran’s supreme leader on Monday appointed Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to the Expediency Council, the country’s top political arbitration headed by ex-president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani.

Iran's supreme leader on Monday appointed Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to the Expediency Council, the country's top political arbitration headed by ex-president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani.

In announcing the appointment, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised Ahmadinejad's worthy efforts as president.

"Considering the profuse experience you gained during eight years of worthy efforts, I appoint you as a member of the Expediency Council," read a statement posted on Khamenei's website.

It is dominated by conservatives and acts as an advisory body for Imam Khamenei, the supreme leader of the Islamic republic who has final say on all key policies, including nuclear talks and foreign policy.

Ahmadinejad vacated office on Saturday. He was succeeded by moderate cleric Hassan Rouhani, who has promised to engage constructively with world powers over Iran's contentious nuclear drive and to stave up the shrinking economy.

The Expediency Council comprises high-ranking religious and political figures and former government officials.

It is also tasked with resolving legislative issues between the parliament and the Guardians Council, which interprets the constitution.