Iran, Germany keen on closer ties

/By Azernews/

By Aynur Karimova

Iran and Germany are deeply interested in closer bilateral relations as the nuclear Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action has opened a new window to Tehran-Berlin ties.

This was stated by German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier at a joint press conference following a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in Tehran on February 2.

Steinmeier said his second visit to Tehran in three months focused on good issues, as well as those which are a source of concern.

"I am confident the JCPOA made the world and region safer, and for the years to come narrowed prospects of nuclearization of the region," he said expressing his satisfaction over the deal reached between Iran and the world powers in Vienna last summer.

Touching upon the regional crises, the German FM called for a change in the conditions so that bloodshed can be stopped and a political solution can be achieved.

"It is why we say that JCPOA is important," he said adding that it is not a secret that there are differences over the settlement of the Syrian crisis. "We shall act upon the understanding reached under UN supervision so that it will result in negotiations between the Syrian government and its opposition."

Steinmeier, who will also pay a visit to Saudi Arabia on February 3, believes that Iran and Saudi Arabia are the two countries that can contribute to the settlement of crisis in Syria. He also expressed confidence that Germany's likely mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia is not necessary.

The German FM will also held a meeting with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and discuss the issue of Rouhani's next state visit to Europe, as well as Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani on