Iran’s Zarif Welcomes Deepening of Economic Cooperation between Iran, EU
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif renewed Tehran’s willingness to boost cooperation with the European Union, and said the nuclear deal between the country and world powers will facilitate the improvement of ties.
Speaking at a meeting with Martin Schulz, the visiting president of the European Parliament, in Tehran on Saturday, Zarif said that Iran welcomes bolstering economic cooperation with the EU based on mutual respect.
“We foresee a lot of opportunities for the two sides’ economic sectors as a result of JCPOA (the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action),” Zarif said, adding that Iran welcomes parliamentary talks with the EP within the framework of the basic principles accepted by the two sides’ parliaments and also respect for values.
He, at the same time, pointed to the Islamophobia and double-standard attitudes in the West in dealing with rights of Asian and African nationals, and said these are serious issues for debates.
Schulz, for his part, said Iran is “an important player” in the resolution of the regional crises and its role cannot be ignored.
He also said Iran’s participation in next international conference on Syrian crisis is very important.
As regards bilateral ties, he said the European Parliament is interested in the expansion of parliamentary cooperation with Iran through the adoption of new approaches.
The European Parliament welcomes economic cooperation, trade exchanges and investment in Iran in line with the framework of the JCPOA, he said.