Iran Hails France’s Realistic Approach, Push for Strategic Independence

In a telephone conversation with his French counterpart Catherine Colonna on Friday, the Iranian foreign minister hailed the “positive step” of France as its stance on the Islamic Republic of Iran has become “realistic”.

He also highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and historical relations between Tehran and Paris.

Referring to the recent comments from French President Emmanuel Macron about France’s “strategic independence”, Amirabdollahian said practical efforts to implement that strategy would be considered as an effective step in the contemporary evolving world.

The Iranian foreign minister further condemned the Zionist regime’s war crimes against people of Gaza, adding, “In my (recent) trip to Lebanon, I realized that the Palestinian resistance is determined and prepared to defend the rights of the Palestinian nation. The developments in Palestine are definitely not in favor of the belligerent rulers of the Zionist regime.”

Denouncing the Swedish parliament’s move to blacklist the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, Amirabdollahian underlined, “The IRGC plays an unparalleled role in safeguarding (Iran’s) national security and fighting against Takfiri terrorism in the region. Known as the guardian of the country’s security, the IRGC is our red line.”

For her part, the French foreign minister lauded her recent constructive talks with Amirabdollahian in Beijing.

Expressing satisfaction with Iran’s attention to France’s policy of strategic independence, Colonna described constructive dialogue as the best solution to the problems. She also stated that France welcomes the continuation of constructive and profound talks with Iran.

She further expressed France’s serious concern about the developments in Gaza, saying her country is trying to reduce tensions and stop military clashes there.

Colonna also expressed gratitude to Iran for its humanitarian move to release two French prisoners, describing it as an effective and confidence-building measure.

The two senior diplomats also talked about the course of cooperation between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency.