Diplomacy, dialogue best way to resolve Ukraine crisis: Amir-Abdollahian

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says recourse to diplomacy and promotion of dialogue constitute the best way to resolve the current crisis in Ukraine, reiterating the Islamic Republic’s opposition to war in any part of the world.

Amir-Abdollahian made the remarks in a Thursday phone call with his Serbian counterpart, Nikola Selakovic, during which the two sides discussed bilateral relations as well as the most important international developments, including the ongoing Russian military operation in neighboring Ukraine.

Referring to the latest moves by the US-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) with regard to the war in Ukraine, Iran’s foreign minister said “diplomatic path, dialogue and prevention of further spread of war constitute the most real way” to settle the Ukrainian crisis.

Iran’s top diplomat also reiterated the Islamic Republic’s opposition to war and imposition of unilateral sanctions on countries.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Amir-Abdollahian reflected on the negotiations in the Austrian capital with the goal of restoring Iran’s landmark 2015 deal with world powers, saying, “Iran is determined to achieve a good, strong and lasting agreement” through the Vienna talks.

“Instead of putting forth excessive demands and slowing down the talks, the American side must adopt a realistic approach,” Iran’s top diplomat said.

He added that China, Russia and three European members of the Iran deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have been taking constructive position during the talks.

Amir-Abdollahian said the European Union, especially its foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, and his deputy, Enrique Mora, who also acts as the coordinator of the Vienna talks, have been playing an active role in the Vienna talks.

The Serbian foreign minister, for his part, said his country supports protection of the territorial integrity of Ukraine and believes in a diplomatic path to promote peace in the region.

Selakovic also expressed hope that the Vienna talks will reach a decisive conclusion in the near future.

SS