WANA (Apr 24) – Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi has expressed readiness to reengage in dialogue with the E3 nations — France, Germany, and the United Kingdom — amid what he described as a “lose-lose” status quo in relations.

 

“Iran’s relations with the E3 have experienced ups and downs in recent history. Like it or not, they are currently down. Why? Each side has its own narrative. To me, placing blame is a futile exercise. What matters is that the status quo is lose-lose,” Araghchi wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).

 

He recalled a meeting last September in New York with his European counterparts, where he proposed dialogue over confrontation.

 

“Last September in New York, I offered dialogue when I met E3 FMs and indeed any other European counterpart. Instead of confrontation, I put forward cooperation not only on the nuclear issue, but in each and every other area of mutual interest & concern. They unfortunately chose the hard way,” Iran’s FM stated.

 

The Iranian top diplomat reiterated his willingness to visit Paris, Berlin, and London as a first step toward renewed talks, saying: “I once again propose diplomacy. After my recent consultations in Moscow & Beijing, I am ready to take the first step with visits to Paris, Berlin & London. I was ready to do it before Iran commenced its indirect dialogue with the U.S., but the E3 opted out.”

 

He concluded: “The ball is now in the E3’s court. They have an opportunity to do away with the grip of Special Interest groups and forge a different path. How we act at this critical junction is likely to define the foreseeable future.”