The EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Federica Mogherini, met this morning with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in the margins of the Geneva Conference on Afghanistan.

They discussed the state of implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which is delivering on its objectives as confirmed by thirteen reports released by the International Agency for Atomic Energy. The High Representative reiterated the EU's determination to preserve the nuclear deal, as a key element for the global non-proliferation architecture and crucial for regional and global security. She underlined the need for continued full and effective implementation of the deal by all parties, including the economic benefits arising from it. 

As a follow-up to the high-level seminar on international nuclear cooperation and after the fourth high-level dialogue that were both held earlier this week, High Representative Mogherini and Foreign Minister Zarif reviewed the bilateral cooperation between the EU and Iran in different areas. 

The two discussed the recent developments in the region, including in Syria and Yemen. Federica Mogherini insisted on the need for the main actors in the region to constructively engage in a political settlement for the two conflicts. 

High Representative Mogherini and Foreign Minister Zarif had an exchange also on the importance of full international backing for an inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process, which would benefit not only the Afghan people but also neighbouring populations. They also discussed ongoing efforts to promote Afghanistan's integration into the wider region through enhanced transport links, energy, digital and human connections with neighbouring countries, including Iran.