Iranian FM: EU Should Be More Independent in Nuclear Talks
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Sunday urged the European Union (EU) to be more independent in the negotiations between Iran and six world powers over the country’s peaceful nuclear energy program.
During a meeting with the visiting Cyprus Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandros N. Zenon in Tehran on Sunday, Zarif commented on the latest developments in the nuclear talks between Iran and the Group 5+1 (the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany) and the effective role that the EU plays in the talks.
Iran and the six world powers are expected to hold a fresh round of nuclear talks later this month. The two sides have until November 24 to clinch a comprehensive nuclear deal.
Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian foreign minister commented on the friendly ties between Tehran and Nicosia, stressing the need to boost mutual cooperation in economic, cultural and political areas.
The Cypriot official, for his part, expressed the hope that the nuclear talks between Iran and G5+1 would yield good results.
“Confidence-building between Iran and the international community would pave the way for the expansion of relations between the two countries in all spheres," Zinon added.
He also said that the EU is seeking to establish a lasting and stable relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran.