Iran, EU leaders: ‘Ready to facilitate return to negotiations’

Brussels, 9 March (LaPresse) – European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen exchanged views with the leaders of Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Armenia, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman on the latest developments in the war in Iran, including the unacceptable attacks on countries in the region and the impact on energy security. Once again, ‘they condemned Iran’s indiscriminate attacks in the strongest terms and expressed their full solidarity with the people of the region,’ according to a joint statement. The presidents also ‘thanked the leaders of the region for their assistance and support in repatriating tens of thousands of European citizens who were stranded in their countries when the war broke out.’ The European Union is a ‘reliable and long-standing partner for the region in these difficult times and stands ready to contribute in every way possible to help defuse the situation and facilitate a return to the negotiating table. Although the rules-based international order is under pressure, we firmly believe that dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable paths forward.’ The videoconference is a continuation of the solidarity and diplomatic outreach based on the contacts established by the Presidents since the beginning of this crisis and on the previous efforts of High Representative Kaja Kallas.