Spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi made the remarks on Tuesday in Brussels while addressing a joint seminar between representatives of Iran and the European Union entitled 'International Nuclear Cooperation: Expectations and Responsibilities'.
Iran’s Kamalvandi opened his remarks by expressing satisfaction towards timely holding of the joint seminar. He further went on to read the message of Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi.
The full text of Mr. Salehi’s message is as follows:
“It is an honor to observe fruitful outcomes of the nuclear deal between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the 5+1 group of countries once such instance being development of scientific and technical cooperation with the European Union. The EU played an influential role in reaching the historic deal. We appreciate the constructive role played by the EU in this regard and also thank continuous efforts of EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini and Secretary General of European External Action Service (EEAS) Helga Schmid. I take the opportunity to appreciate precious cooperation of EU’s Energy Commission in line with expansion of bilateral relations following the agreement. In the meantime, shaping a comprehensive framework comprising various plans for deepening mutual ties in the field of nuclear technology, which covers a vast area of research and development as well as nuclear safety, is promising of a bright future in a variety of arenas as regards peaceful nuclear technology. I am deeply pleased about holding of the joint scientific and technical session proposal of which was raised during my earlier visit to Brussels. Undoubtedly, firm determination of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the European Union for taking the right path of bolstering mutual collaborations is an indication of a fruitful measure for both sides. I ask God for further success and prosperity of the organizers of the strategic seminar.”
Kamalvandi later stated “despite being brief, Mr. Salehi’s message contained headlines and foundations of today’s meeting.”
“The seminar revolves around elevation of international cooperation in the field of nuclear energy with an emphasis on two components of ‘Expectations’ and ‘Responsibilities’ which provide us with tangible parameters for pursuing the process of mutual collaborations. We need to exchange views in the true sense of the word in aa bid to define the path and its requirements in the light of common targets and goals,” he continued.
AEOI spokesman said Mr. Salehi was right to stress that numerous venues have emerged for meeting interests of both parties as a result of the opportunities offered by the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
He emphasized that the historic nuclear deal, above and over all other issues, debunked the false claims on the nature and purpose of Iran’s nuclear activities and reassured the world that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively of a peaceful disposition.
“In a broader scope, the nuclear deal works conjunction with Iran’s long-term plan for development and the country’s foreign policy which is based on collaboration with the whole world,” noted the official stressing that the deal could provide grounds for scientific exploitation of existing opportunities.
He further criticized lack of balance in the amount of commitment shown to the deal by both parties asserting “despite Iran’s full commitment to the JCPOA, some countries have had breach of promise.”
“We merely seek elevation of international cooperation in various fields including nuclear technology,” underscored Kamalvandi calling for expansion of bilateral relations in advanced atomic technology.
He further pointed to Iran’s intention to develop clean energy sources both at national and international levels via joint partnership with other countries.
The AEOI official deemed the European Union as a trustworthy partner in the field of new technologies asserting “you are familiar with the volume of Iran’s infrastructure and economic activities and well as its growing potential in modern technologies.” “What we need, however, is exchange of views for implementing joint projects.”
He said Iran will require to produce 100 thousand megawatts of electricity 12% of which are expected to be supplied through nuclear power plants.
“In order to fulfill all objectives, we require necessary resources,” stressed the official highlighting that apart from nuclear power plants, the two sides could also launch partnership in creation of radioisotopes required for healthcare centers.
Behrouz Kamalvandi underlined that the JCPOA offered capacities to facilitate cooperation in various fields with which Iran and the EU could take practical steps towards elevation of effective cooperation by relaying on previous experiences.
The official went on to point to the need for existence of political determination; “you certainly share the view that strengthening of ties in the field of nuclear energy will improve bilateral relations in economic and industrial fields which will bring about welfare of other regional countries.”
He further maintained that the positive trend in Iran’s ties with EU members indicated that both sides were on the correct track saying “we need to consolidate bilateral achievements and practical steps towards the future and enhance our cooperation to a high level. We are required to compensate and repay the time and opportunities lost over the past decade, we need to accelerate the process of bilateral cooperation.”
“It is clear that both sides will benefit from creating a strong relationship based on mutual respect and thereby, the international community will also enjoy positive outcomes of the collaboration,” said Kamalvandi urging all parties spare no effort to ensure realization of the positive result results and outcomes.
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