MOSCOW (Sputnik) – The European Union remains committed to the implementation of the agreement on the Iranian nuclear program, EU foreign ministers said Monday.
“The EU is committed to the continued full and effective implementation of all parts of the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action]. The EU underlines that the lifting of nuclear-related sanctions has a positive impact on trade and economic relations with Iran including benefits for the Iranian people. It strengthens cooperation and allows for continuous dialogue with Iran,” the statement, read out by EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, reads.
According to the official, the European Union considered President Trump's recent decision as an internal US process, adding that the EU would encourage the US to maintain its commitment to the deal and consider its implications for the security of the US, its partners and the region before taking further steps.
However, Mogherini reiterated the necessity to address increasing tensions in the Middle East and Iranian ballistic missiles outside of the agreement on Iran’s nuclear program.
"While the EU expresses its concerns related to ballistic missiles and increasing tensions in the region, it reiterates the need to address them outside the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action], in the relevant formats and fora. The EU stands ready to actively promote and support initiatives to ensure a more stable, peaceful and secure regional environment," their statement reads.
Mogherini added that she would be visiting Washington in early November to discuss the recent developments regarding the deal.
On Friday, US President Donald Trump said his administration had decided not to certify Iran's compliance with the deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), but had not challenged Iran's compliance with the deal at the international level.
After Trump's announcement, many members of the P5+1 group that brokered the historic deal in 2015 yet again stated that they believe Iran is in compliance with the nuclear deal. Thus, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said on October 13 that Berlin would try to persuade the US Congress to keep the deal.
