Schulz calls Iran stabilizing force in unstable Mideast

TEHRAN – The European Parliament President, Martin Schulz, said on Saturday that Iran is playing an important role in developments in the Middle East region, calling Iran a stabilizing force in the unstable Middle East region.

On the ongoing conflict in Syria, Schulz noted that the Syrians should decide for their future through ballot boxes and Iran, the European Union, Saudi Arabia, Russia and the U.S. can help them in this respect, according to the Tehran Times.

Schulz, a German MEP from Social Democratic Party, added that a solution to the Syrian conflict can be reached through national dialogue.

Schulz also said the European Union is of the opinion that all countries with major influence on Syria should reach a consensus to end the war in the country so that an election is held in the country with the participation of all sects and ethnic groups.

Iran calls for election in Syria based on international standards

Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani also said an election “based on international standards” should be held in Syria so that the people can decide about their fate.

Iran’s top MP said that Tehran considers “structural democratic reforms” as prerequisites to settle conflicts in Yemen and Syria.

‘The role of Iran in stabilizing region is undeniable’

In a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad, the European Parliament president insisted the role of Iran in stabilizing the region is undeniable. He also said the participation of Iran in the next meeting on Syria, which will be held in Vienna on Thursday, is of great importance.

‘Nuclear deal will open new chapter in Iran-EU ties’

Schulz also said that implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, commonly called the Iran nuclear deal, will open new chapter in cooperation between Tehran and Europe.

He also said the nuclear agreement between Iran and the 5+1 group proved that diplomacy is the best solution to achieve common goals. He also called the agreement a successful example of diplomacy.

He attached great importance to the European Parliament’s role in expanding relations between Iran and the European Union, saying the EU is interested in increasing ties with Iran in various areas.

5+1 should fully, precisely and timely implement terms of nuclear deal

The European Parliament chief also held talks with President Hassan Rouhani during which the president said Tehran is fully committed to the terms of the JCPOA. Rouhani also reiterated Tehran’s position that the 5+1 group should also “fully”, “precisely” and “timely” observe its obligations in lifting economic sanctions against the Islamic Republic.

M. Wassouf