Moscow is determined to ensure the implementation of the 2015 nuclear deal and will do all in its power to help counter the United States’ unilateral sanctions against Iran, a senior Russian diplomat said.
“The world’s problems chiefly stem from the wrong policies of the US and its allies in the region,” Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said in a meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araqchi, in the Russian capital on Friday.
The landmark nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, was reached by Iran and the six world powers in 2015, but the US unilaterally abandoned it in May and reimposed the sanctions that had been lifted under the deal.
Russia, along with other signatories, remains committed and has voiced support for its continued implementation.
Positive Approach
Araqchi expressed gratitude at Russia’s “logical, strong and fair” approach toward JCPOA.
“JCPOA is an achievement of diplomacy and the US will weaken diplomacy at the global level through its efforts to scupper the accord,” he was quoted as saying by ISNA.
The Friday discussions also focused on mutual ties and major political, regional and international developments.
Ryabkov expressed willingness for closer political dialogue between Tehran and Moscow, saying such talks are crucial not only for the two countries, but also for the security and development of the region and the world.
“We have a good level of cooperation and often share the same position on regional and international issues,” he said, describing Iran and Russia as “reliable partners”.
Sweden Vows Support
Araqchi also met Swedish officials in his earlier trip to Stockholm to hold the fourth round of political consultations with the European country.
At a meeting with Iranian diplomat, Sweden’s Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom reaffirmed her country’s will to maintain collaborations with Iran at bilateral, regional and international level.
“JCPOA was an international agreement based on a multilateral approach whose implementation benefited all countries,” she said, adding that despite the US withdrawal, European countries are determined to preserve and implement the deal and make efforts to assure the continuation and development of economic relations with Iran.
Araqchi welcomed Sweden’s approach to JCPOA, calling for more practical measures by the Europeans to salvage the deal.
The top Swedish diplomat also thanked Iran for its support of Yemen peace talks hosted recently by her country.
The Yemeni warring sides came together in a United Nations-sponsored meeting last week, which reportedly produced favorable outcome.
Iran is said to have used its influence on a Yemeni faction to convince them to enter negotiations.
“Iran will continue to play a constructive role to ensure the success of the intra-Yemeni talks,” Araqchi said.
