The Prime Minister, Charles Michel, met the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hassan Rohani, in New York on Tuesday. They met in the margins of the UN General Assembly. The two men brought up several issues, including the Syrian crisis, the fight against terrorism and even the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme.
The head of the Belgian government says that the calling into question of this agreement by the American President, Donald Trump, could lead to political momentum for the European Union.
Mr Michel stated, “This is an opportunity for the EU to defend its values. The fact that Iran is open to collaboration at various levels is a good thing.”
He went on, “Many European countries are convinced that a dialogue with Iran is needed for stability.” In this regard, he described the nuclear agreement reached in 2015 as a “step in the right direction.” Mr Michel stated that the Europeans will all pull together to ensure that this agreement is complied with. He made it clear that these countries are expecting loyalty from Tehran in implementing the agreement.
Moreover, the Prime Minister mentioned his desire to strengthen Belgian collaboration with Iran and, as such, suggested that Mr Rohani visited Belgium.
Charles Michel lastly stressed that the meeting had proven an opportunity to consider areas of disagreement, in particular around issues relating to human rights.
The Brussels Times
