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european council conclusions: european council adopts declaration on iran

GENERAL SECRETARIAT OF THE COUNCIL

December 11, 2009

Excerpts

 

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The European Council underlines that the European Union since 2004 has been working for a diplomatic solution of the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme. The European Council expresses its grave concern that Iran has so far done nothing to rebuild confidence of the international community in the exclusively peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. The fact that Iran has constructed a clandestine enrichment facility near Qom, in breach of its obligations, and the declaration of an intent to construct further plants have further deepened the European Council’s concerns.

The European Council again urges Iran to comply fully and without further delay with its
obligations under the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and the IAEA, notably to meet the requirements set out by the IAEA Board of Governor’s resolution of 27 November 2009.

The European Council regrets that Iran has not agreed with the IAEA to a scheme of nuclear fuel supply for the Tehran research reactor, which would contribute to build confidence while responding to Iran’s need for medical radio-isotopes.

The European Council notes with great concern that Iran has failed to take up repeated offers by China, France, Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States and the EU High Representative Javier Solana to further discuss its nuclear programme and other issues of mutual concern. It nonetheless remains committed to work for a diplomatic solution of the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme. The offer of negotiations remains on the table.

The European Union will continue to review all aspects of the Iranian nuclear issue and will decide soon on further steps within the context of the dual track approach. In this regard the European Union remains ready to engage with Iran in order to reach a negotiated solution to the issue, should Iran take concrete decisions towards that end. However, Iran’s persistent failure to meet its international obligations and Iran’s apparent lack of interest in pursuing negotiations require a clear response, including through appropriate measures. Consistent with the dual-track approach, the European Union would support action by the UNSC if Iran continues not to co-operate with the international community over its nuclear programme. The European Union stands ready to take the necessary steps to accompany this UNSC process. The European Council requests EU Foreign Ministers to consider options for next steps to this end at the next Foreign Affairs Council.

The European Council reiterates its deep concern for continued violations of human rights in Iran. The European Union will continue to raise its concerns with the Iranian government and remind Iran of its international obligations, including under the international covenant on civil and political rights. The European Council reiterates its rising concern also about the situation of staff members of European Union Missions and European citizens in Iran who recently have been on trial, and continues to call for their prompt and unconditional release. Any action against one EU Member State is considered an action against the entire EU.

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