Iran Press/ Europe: Mohammad Javad Zarif added at international conference on Afghanistan sponsored by the United Nations in Geneva, Iran is ready to continue to help the people and government of Afghanistan in their quest for peace and cooperate with those who have the same objective.
He also said, there is national, regional and global consensus that there is no military solution in Afghanistan, and the time has come for a national reconciliation and inclusive political solution in Afghanistan, owned and led by the Afghan government and people, Iran Press reported.
Related News:
Iran's army increases presence in Afghanistan border: Gen. Bagheri
Zarif added, there are old and new challenges. The presence of foreign forces has never brought stability in our region and has historically provided a recruiting ground for extremists. A new challenge is the introduction of ISIS to Afghanistan which has led to more bloodshed and introduced dangerous sectarian tendencies.
Iranian foreign minister said, terrorism and drug trafficking have always been intertwined in Afghanistan. We need a comprehensive strategy to fight the drug menace, which must include economic development in this resource rich country.
Related News:
Iran, Afghanistan closely cooperate in the fight against drug trafficking
He underlined, all of us need to facilitate the intra-Afghan dialogue, by helping to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table with the Government for inclusive and comprehensive talks. Domestic and regional inclusion is key to success.
Zarif also said, Iran is ready to continue to help the people and government of Afghanistan in their quest for peace and cooperate with all with the same objective.
Related News:
Zarif: Iran supports peace initiatives in Afghanistan
On the sidelines of the Geneva Conference on Afghanistan, Zarif also met with Federica Mogherini, European Union Foreign Policy Chief. They exchanged views on EU-Iran relations and the moves in line with countering US’ unilateral sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
In this meeting, Mogherini reiterated the bloc's determination to preserve the multilateral nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
She underlined the need for continued full and effective implementation of the Iran nuclear deal by all parties, including the economic benefits arising from it.
Related News:
Salehi, Mogherini discuss JCPOA and America's unlawful sanctions
Except the US, other parties to the deal – China, France, Germany, Iran, Russia, the United Kingdom and the European Union – have expressed their commitment to the accord and are working on instruments to bypass the US restrictions.
On Nov. 20, Mogherini said that work on creation of the EU Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for bypassing the US sanctions on Iran was being carried out in a positive manner.
Related News:
Work continues on SPV: Mogherini
European Union Foreign Policy Chief said work is continuing on the special purpose vehicle (SPV) aimed at facilitating trade with Iran following the reimposition of US sanctions on the country, but gave no specific date as to when it is going to be implemented.
Reportedly, either France or Germany might become the host nation for the European clearing house, usually referred to as SPV.
The mechanism is not finalized yet and finishing touches will be discussed on the sidelines of the 2018 G20 Buenos Aires summit, scheduled to begin on November 30. 101/202
Read More:
Taliban welcomes a government offer for unconditional peace talks: political analyst
If Pakistan puts pressure on Taliban, peace process will be positively affected:Afghanistan
Mogherini: EU, UN, as champions of dialogue and cooperation, will support JCPOA
Afghan President outlines a new peace offer to Taliban
