Iran upbeat on dialogue with Europe

Hailing the positive impacts of a recent prisoner swap between Iran and Belgium, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian expressed hope for the launch of “purposeful and effective” negotiations with the European governments.

According to Tasnim news agency, in a telephone conversation with his Belgian counterpart on Saturday, Amir-Abdollahian expressed satisfaction with the fruitful efforts at the exchange of prisoners between the two countries.

He also hoped that the recent breakthrough would help “open a new page” in Iran’s relations with Belgium and other European countries.

“Considering Belgium’s role in the European Union, one can expect that the launch of purposeful and effective dialogue would be put on the agenda of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the European parties in light of mutual respect,” Amir-Abdollahian added.

For her part, Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib thanked Iran for its cooperation in the prisoner swap case.

She expressed hope that Iran’s humanitarian measure would open up new vistas in the relations between Brussels and Tehran.

The top diplomat also noted that Belgium is ready to help improve relations between Iran and Europe, highlighting her country’s role in the EU.

Last week, Iranian diplomat Asadollah Asadi who had been imprisoned in Belgium for five years was released and returned home.

In turn, Iran freed Belgian national Olivier Vandecasteele after almost 15 months.

ME