WANA (Nov 24) – A senior EU official has expressed hope for the resumption of nuclear diplomacy between the European Union and the Islamic Republic of Iran in the near future.

 

Peter Stano, the European Union’s lead spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, stated, “Diplomacy is the best way to find solutions to significant issues with Iran.”

 

In response to a question regarding the potential revival of sanctions relief negotiations with Iran, Stano said: “The EU High Representative and his team are in contact with Iran, other JCPOA parties, and the United States to keep all communication channels open and preserve the possibility of meaningful nuclear negotiations.”

 

Repeating allegations about Iran’s nuclear program, Stano claimed: “The EU fully relies on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the agency’s reports about Iran’s nuclear trajectory and lack of cooperation with the IAEA are deeply concerning.”

 

 

These claims come as Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization and Foreign Ministry issued a joint statement following the adoption of an anti-Iran resolution by the IAEA Board of Governors. The statement emphasized: “The Islamic Republic of Iran’s principled policy has always been based on constructive engagement with the IAEA within the framework of rights and obligations outlined under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA). However, three European countries and the United States, with a long history of non-compliance and explicit violations of their commitments—including under the JCPOA—have pursued an unjustifiable and confrontational approach by proposing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board.”

 

The Iranian entities further stated, “This politicized, unrealistic, and destructive approach undermines the positive atmosphere and understandings that have been achieved. Such actions, particularly at a time when Iran and the IAEA were on a constructive path, once again demonstrate that the three European countries and the U.S. lack sincerity in their claims of preserving the agency’s credibility. The Iranian nuclear issue is merely a pretext for advancing their illegitimate objectives.”

 

 

Nevertheless, Stano remarked, “Regarding nuclear negotiations, we hope nuclear diplomacy can soon be restored. This would also be beneficial for regional stability.”

 

Previously, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, commented on the possibility of resuming talks with the West, stating, “There is interest from European countries to restart negotiations, and we will likely proceed soon.”

 

Stano further reiterated that “The EU is committed to a comprehensive political approach based on mutual respect. Europe views diplomacy as the best method to address critical issues, and we remain in contact with Iran’s president and foreign minister.”