Iran's Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has postponed a planned visit to Latin America as his administration braces itself for the upcoming presidential elections.

President Ahmadinejad was scheduled to leave Tehran on Tuesday for official visits to Brazil, Ecuador and Venezuela.

However, Fars news agency reported on Monday that the president had indefinitely postponed his three-country tour.

The report comes as the White House has expressed discomfort with Iran's growing influence in Latin America.

However, speculation runs high that the cancellation could be related to the fact that all parties seeking to participate in Iran's June 12 elections would be required to officially register from May 5 to 10.

It is widely believed that the incumbent president will seek a second term in office.

Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=93527§ionid=351020101