NOURNEWS- The spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry rejected a series of “groundless” allegations made against Iran at a joint statement of the European Union and the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC).
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani on Wednesday reacted to the statement that the ministers of foreign affairs of the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union have issued at the conclusion of the 27th PGCC-EU Joint Council, held in Muscat on October 9 and 10.
The PGCC-EU Joint Council has voiced concern about the lack of progress toward resolving what it called the dispute between the United Arab Emirates and Iran over the three Iranian islands Abu Musa, Lesser Tunb and Greater Tunb.
The council has also called on Iran to immediately fulfill its nuclear obligations and commitments, fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency, and cease the proliferation of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
In response to the statement, Kanaani reiterated that Iran’s principled policy and regional strategy entails stronger relations with the Persian Gulf states.
Dismissing a number of baseless allegations against Iran raised in the PGCC-EU statement, the spokesman hit back at certain European governments for their interference in the Persian Gulf region and the sale of arms to the regional countries for the persistence of regional tensions.
Kanaani underlined that the regional developments in the past recent months have been promising and in favor of the interests of all regional nations contrary to “the European Union’s expression of unreasonable and self-interested concerns.”
He also described diplomacy and dialogue as the best way to strengthen cooperation to fulfill common interests and strengthen regional stability and security.
Highlighting Iran’s role in creating security, a genuine fight against terrorism, and ensuring navigation security, Kanaani said sustainable regional security requires closer multilateral cooperation without any interference from outsiders.
He also reiterated that Abu Musa, Lesser Tunb and Greater Tunb islands are eternal parts of the Iranian territory.
Dismissing the PGCC-EU statement’s stance on Iran’s nuclear and defense activities, the spokesman underscored that Iran honors its commitments under international law and will keep its constructive cooperation with the IAEA in accordance with the Safeguards Agreement.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran’s military and defense power is meant to enhance deterrence, protect national security and strengthen regional stability,” he stated.
The spokesman concluded by saying, “The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its serious determination to move towards a stable, safe and prosperous region in cooperation with the neighbors and without foreign interference.”
NOURNEWS