Iran’s nuclear programme and the Middle East crisis were the key topics discussed in a phone conversation between Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini and her Iranian colleague Mohammad Javad Zarif. The two foreign ministers discussed the new round of nuclear talks taking place in Vienna, which Italy hopes will lead to an agreement by the deadline of 24 November 2014.
During their discussion the ministers also examined the ISIS threat and the need for all the regional powers to play a part in defeating this terrorist organisation, which is endangering not just the stability of the region but the very principles of civil coexistence. In this framework, Mogherini and Zarif agreed on the urgent need to work towards a political solution in Syria, with support for the work of the United Nations Special Envoy, Staffan De Mistura.
Ministers Mogherini and Zarif then discussed the risk of the crisis directly involving Lebanon, and expressed the hope that the Lebanese parliament will reach agreement on the election of the President. This would strengthen the country’s institutional framework and its capacity to address the risks to its security. In Minister Mogherini’s view, it is vital for Iran to play a positive role and contribute to the stability of the region.
