TEHRAN: An accord reached with world powers over Iran’s controversial nuclear programme could help Tehran foster better ties with Europe, visiting Members of the European Parliament (MEP) said here yesterday.
“It is of great importance for the European Union to reach an agreement with Iran,” said Hannes Swoboda, head of a three-member MEP delegation from the socialist and democrat faction visiting Tehran.
Accompanied by Ana Gomes and Veronique de Keyser, he made the remarks in a meeting with Iranian parliament speaker Ali Larijani, the Isna news agency reported.
Iran and EU nations could once again become “trustworthy partners” if “both sides take advantage of the current situation and take steps towards a final agreement” to resolve the nuclear issue, Swoboda said.
The unofficial visit comes amid raised hopes of Iran constructively engaging the international community following the election of President Hassan Rouhani, a moderate who has pledged a new approach to the talks. Rouhani, who took office in August, has promised more transparency on Iran’s nuclear drive, which the West suspects is aimed at military objectives despite repeated Iranian denials.AFP
