Iranian FM Appreciates Spanish Vaccine Aid for Afghan Refugees

In one of the latest meetings during his visit to Germany, on the sidelines of the 58th Munich Security Conference, Amirabdollahian held talks with his Spanish counterpart José Manuel Albares over bilateral relations, some regional and international issues, as well as the nuclear talks in Vienna.

In the meeting, the Iranian top diplomat appreciated Spain for sending a shipment of vaccine as aid for the people of Afghanistan and Afghan refugees.

Referring to the special and complicated situation in Afghanistan, Amirabdollahian stressed the need for all countries to work to help the people of this country, the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s website reported.

The top Iranian diplomat also spoke about the talks on lifting sanctions on Iran in Vienna. He noted that the negotiations have reached a point where the western side needs to make political decisions to reach an agreement, and in this regard, the three European countries in particular must heed their role as signatories to the Iran nuclear deal, JCPOA, and try to respect the legitimate rights and interests of Iran.

Regarding bilateral relations between Tehran and Madrid, Amirabdollahian stressed that it is worthwhile to accelerate cooperation and that there is good potential for expanding relations especially in the fields of medicine, conservation of water resources, new and renewable energies, as well as rail and air transportation.

He also invited his Spanish counterpart to visit Tehran and pursue the development and expansion of bilateral relations.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares also said he was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with his Iranian counterpart. Albares also commended Iran for hosting Afghan refugees and announced his country's readiness to cooperate in providing assistance to these displaced people.

He said it was difficult for Madrid to maintain and improve relations in various dimensions with Iran, especially economic ties, during the sanctions, but Spain decided to stay in Iran and this shows the Islamic Republic’s importance for the Spanish government and people.

Albares also referred to the fact that his country is holding the presidency of the European Union in the second half of this year, announcing Spain’s readiness to interact, cooperate and consult with Iran in the capacity, especially on regional issues.

The foreign ministers of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Spain also held talks over issues related to the West Asian region and the Persian Gulf, as well as the latest developments in Yemen and Afghanistan.