WANA (Jan 01) – The Deputy Minister of Legal and International Affairs of Iran’s Foreign Ministry has announced the date for a new round of talks between Iran and the three European countries.

 

Kazem Gharibabadi, Deputy Minister of Legal and International Affairs, addressed reporters regarding the latest developments in Iran’s lawsuit against those responsible for the assassination of the former commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force. He stated: “As we approach the anniversary of the martyrdom of Major General Qassem Soleimani, a heroic figure in the fight against terrorism, your question relates to the legal follow-ups under international law for this heinous terrorist crime. This case concerns the 1973 Convention on Diplomatic Immunities, which stipulates that officials and diplomats on foreign missions must not be subjected to any criminal act. Those who commit such crimes must be held accountable under this convention.”

 

He added: “The review of this case was supposed to be carried out within the framework of the responsibilities of the Legal Affairs Office of the Presidency. Several meetings have been held in this regard. The process under the convention is complex and time-consuming. First, the victimized country must file a claim, and then the two nations involved must engage in negotiations as outlined in the convention. If the victimized country remains unsatisfied, the case may proceed to arbitration and, eventually, to the International Court of Justice.”

 

Gharibabadi explained: “These matters are strictly legal and fall under the jurisdiction of the Legal Affairs Office of the Presidency. Multiple reviews and meetings have been conducted. I hope a comprehensive conclusion will be reached soon. We have established good communication with Iraq’s judiciary, as Iraq is the relevant jurisdiction in this case. To our knowledge, Iraq’s judicial system has initiated an investigation and conducted extensive inquiries. However, no formal indictment has been issued yet, as the case remains in the final stages of investigation.”

Second Round of Talks Between Iran and the European Troika to Take Place

The Deputy Minister also announced that January 13 has been set as the date for the new round of talks between Iran and the three European countries.
“We are not currently engaged in negotiations,” he clarified, “but rather discussions to clarify topics and conduct further consultations. If negotiations are to take place, we need to establish the framework and methodology beforehand.”

 

Regarding the review of FATF compliance, Gharibabadi noted: “I have seen reports suggesting that the Supreme Leader has approved further review of this matter. Naturally, if this issue is placed on the agenda of the Expediency Council, its outcome must determine whether Iran’s accession to the relevant conventions aligns with national interests. If confirmed, the necessary steps will be taken to facilitate its approval.”

 

He emphasized: “The government’s position is clear. Both the President and the Minister of Economy have pursued this issue, indicating that the review of joining these two conventions is on the Expediency Council’s agenda. We hope that the evaluations are thorough and based on the country’s interests and the well-being of its people.”