Geneva, 16 October 2013

131016/04

Joint Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton and Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif

The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton and Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif made today the following statement:

"Delegations of the E3+3 and the Islamic Republic of Iran, led respectively by the EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy and Foreign Minister of Iran, held two days of substantive and forward looking negotiations in Geneva on 15 and 16 October 2013.

Building on the positive atmosphere of the first ministerial meeting held in New York on 26 September, the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran presented an outline of a plan as a proposed basis for negotiation, which is being carefully considered by the E3+3 as an important contribution.

Members of delegations followed with in-depth bilateral and joint consultations on various elements of the approach. It was decided to convene the next meeting in Geneva on November 7 and 8. The participants also agreed that E3+3 and Iranian nuclear, scientific and sanctions experts will convene before the next meeting to address differences and to develop practical steps."