ISTANBUL, JUNE 16 — A group of 17 countries on Monday welcomed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) announced between the United States (US) and Iran, describing it as an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy, Anadolu Ajansi reported.
“This is an opportunity to restore regional stability and stabilize the global economy,” according to a joint statement by the United Kingdom (UK), France, Germany and Italy.
The statement was later signed by 13 other countries. They congratulated the US, Iran and mediators including Pakistan and Qatar on what they described as a diplomatic success.
The leaders stressed that detailed negotiations should be concluded and the agreement implemented “swiftly and comprehensively,” adding that they stand ready to assist the process.
They also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the restoration of “unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation.”
Other countries that signed the statement were Japan, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Greek Cypriot Administration, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Poland and Portugal.
The group of leaders said they were committed to contributing to the effort, including through “resolute independent defense missions” aimed at reassuring commercial shipping and conducting mine clearance operations, in accordance with their respective constitutional requirements.
The statement reiterated that Iran “must never acquire nuclear weapons” and expressed its willingness to work with the US, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) towards that objective.
The leaders also said they were ready to lift related sanctions in response to “clear and verifiable steps” by Iran on its nuclear program.
They pledged to work closely with the US, Iran and regional partners to maintain momentum and reach a long-term diplomatic solution.
It further reaffirmed support for the stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon and stressed the importance of a firm ceasefire.
Regional tensions have escalated since late February after the US and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, killing more than 3,000 people.
Tehran responded with attacks on Gulf states and Israel, as well as a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington and Tehran reached a temporary ceasefire on April 8 through Pakistani mediation before announcing a framework agreement to end the conflict.
The agreement is expected to be officially signed in Switzerland on July 19.
— BERNAMA-ANADOLU
