Japan Working With Europe to Uphold Nuclear Agreement

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reiterated his support for Iran's 2015 nuclear agreement with six world powers, saying Tokyo has initiated cooperation with the three European signatories to help salvage the fraying deal. 
He made the statement in a meeting with President Hassan Rouhani in Tokyo on Friday, President.ir reported. 
The deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, has been unraveling since the United States pulled out of it last year and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. 
France, Germany and Britain have been trying to compensate for the sanctions through a financial mechanism that aims to facilitate trade with Iran on a non-dollar basis. 
However, the system's operationalization has been long delayed, forcing Iran to eventually begin to reduce its compliance step by step. 
The activation of the channel, potentially with the help of Japan, could help address Iran's economic concerns in which case Iranian officials have pledged to return to full compliance. 
"We do not turn down any negotiation or agreement in this regard within the framework of our interests," Rouhani said. 
The US restrictions have seriously restricted Iran's trade with the world, especially its export of oil, the lifeblood of its economy. 
To resist this pressure, Iran has engaged in close talks with its partners to find ways of bypassing the sanctions. 

Trade-Boosting Initiatives Welcome 

Rouhani said any plan that can increase Iran’s trade ties, especially in energy, export and oil sectors, is welcome.
Abe expressed his country's willingness to expand ties with Iran in all fields, including in consular, technical and medical sectors as well as management of earthquake and other crises. 
"We are keen to help the two countries' private sectors play a more active role in developing bilateral economic relations," he said. 
US sanctions on Iran have given rise to tensions in the Persian Gulf region, raising global concern about the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. 
Japan holds friendly relations with both countries and has sought to mediate between the two to defuse tensions.
The Japanese premier voiced support for Iran's Hormuz peace initiative that intends to bring all Persian Gulf states and the United Nations together to ensure security in the strategic waters. 
Rouhani said Iran welcomes the assistance of any country, including Japan, to advance its agenda for promoting peace and stability in the region and the world.