Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned European countries against any “threats or pressure” during talks related to the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the JCPOA. He made the comments on Sunday when he hosted Ireland’s foreign minister.
Ireland was given a seat on the UN Security Council this year and was appointed as the “facilitator” of the resolution that endorsed the JCPOA. In a statement ahead of the meeting with Rouhani, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Ireland is a “strong supporter” of the JCPOA and seeks to encourage a revival of the pact.
Rouhani urged Coveney and his European partners not to make threats during the talks that are ahead. “The best way to solve problems with European partners at various bilateral, regional and international levels, is negotiations based on mutual respect and avoiding any threats or pressure,” Rouhani said.
Rouhani also reiterated Tehran’s stance on the accord. “Iran is ready to immediately take compensatory measures based on the nuclear deal and fulfill its commitments just after the US illegal sanctions are lifted and it abandons its policy of threats and pressure,” he said.
After meeting with Rouhani and Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, Coveney said now is a “crucial moment” for the JCPOA. “I am in ongoing contact with the parties to the agreement and today’s discussions with President Rouhani and Minister Zarif were intensive and productive,” he said.
While the Biden administration has said it is willing to enter a dialogue with Iran through EU-mediated talks, the quickest way the deal can be revived is if the US lifts sanctions to return to compliance.