Iran's FM Zarif Meets British, Swiss Counterparts in New York


TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian foreign minister discussed issues of mutual interest with the Britain's foreign secretary and Swiss foreign minister on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During their meeting on Monday evening, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson stressed the necessity to improve bilateral ties between Tehran and London.

The two sides also discussed bilateral banking and consular relations.

The UK foreign secretary declared London’s strong support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) reached between Iran and G5+1 (The US, Britain, Russia, China, France plus Germany) in 2015.

Johnson underlined necessity for preservation and execution of nuclear deal.

Zarif and Johnson discussed also latest regional developments in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain and Afghanistan and underlined necessity for stop of violence and use of dialogue for resolution of tensions.

Earlier on Monday morning, Iranian foreign minister had also a meeting with Swiss foreign minister Didier Burkhalter and the two sides discussed mutual relations and issues of mutual interest.

Zarif traveled to New York to take part in the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Meantime, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani heads Iranian delegation and is expected to make a speech at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday.

The 72nd regular session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 72) convened at UN Headquarters on September 12. The General Debate will open on Tuesday, September 19, with the main theme ‘Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet’.

A number of events will take place in parallel to the UNGA 72, including Global Goals Week 2017 and Climate Week NYC 2017.