The EU remains committed to implementing the JCPOA ;Maja Kocijancic tells ILNA

Maja Kocijancic   is Spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs & Security Policy.below is her interview with ILNA:

ILNA:  What is your analysis of the nuclear deal?

The Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) was unanimously endorsed by the UN Security Council. It is a key element of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture and is crucial for the security of the region, Europe and the entire world. The EU remains committed to implementing the JCPOA as a matter of respecting international agreements and of our shared international security. We expect Iran to play a constructive role in this regard and to continue implementing all its nuclear commitments in full. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed in 14 consecutive reports that Iran is abiding by its commitments under the Agreement. 

ILNA:  Do you think EU efforts can help Iran to circumvent sanctions?

The EU considers the extraterritorial application of third states' unilateral restrictive measures unlawful. Thus, through its measures, the EU is neither circumventing sanctions nor facilitating circumvention by third parties. This reflects our strong political commitment to the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA, in all its aspects and in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2231. It is in this spirit that the EU's Blocking Statute entered into force, with the particular aim of protecting European  companies in light of the re-imposed sanctions by the United States following its withdrawal from the JCPOA.

We would also like to recall that on 31 January 2019 3 Member States (France, Germany and United Kingdom) set up INSTEX (Instrument for Supporting Trade Exchanges), which is aimed at facilitating legitimate trade between European economic operators and Iran. It will operate fully in line with EU and international law and standards on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism.

ILNA:  Given the launch of the financial mechanism of Iran and Europe, do you think this mechanism can help Iran to solve its problems?

Alongside implementation by Iran of its nuclear-related commitments, the lifting of sanctions, including the economic dividends arising from it, constitutes an essential part of the JCPOA. We believe that it is vital that the economic dividends flowing from the deal are felt directly by the Iranian people and Iranian businesses.  The EU welcomes the registration of the Special Purpose Vehicle, also known as INSTEX, with France, Germany and United Kingdom as its initial shareholders. Once fully operational, this instrument should make the benefits of sanctions-lifting more tangible for the Iranian people and help EU exporters and importers pursuing legitimate trade with Iran, as permitted under EU, international and the relevant domestic law. However it needs to be matched by a corresponding structure in Iran, which would be able to perform similar functions and, as INSTEX, respect relevant international anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements. It is for the 3 Member States involved to share additional technical information about the mechanism.

ILNA:  As you know, the flood has damaged many cities in Iran. But sanctions and the United States do not allow sending some humanitarian aid to Iran. Do you think this behavior is acceptableted States? Should flood victims also be the victim of disagreements between governments?

This is not a question for us, but rather for the US administration. On April 4 the European Union announced an initial amount of €1.2 million in emergency support in response to the devastating floods that have recently affected northern and south-western parts of Iran. We stand in full solidarity with the Iranian people at this difficult time. Our thoughts are with the thousands of families affected by the deadly floods as well as with the brave responders on the ground. The EU will help deliver essential support in the impacted areas. This funding will support humanitarian partners, including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in delivering relief assistance, which will allow the most-affected to cover their urgent needs. For over 20 years the EU has funded humanitarian operations in Iran, providing assistance to the most vulnerable refugees, including protection, shelter, water and sanitation, food security, and access to basic education and healthcare services, and we will continue to do so.

ILNA:  How do you assess the future of relation between Iran and the world?

It is not for us to comment on the relations between Iran and the international community. As far as the European Union is concerned, we have a clear, balanced and comprehensive approach with Iran based on dialogue. We address all issues of concern, we are critical when there are divergences and cooperative when there is mutual interest.  

ILNA: How do you know the political future of a person like Trump?

These questions should not be directed at the European Union. As mentioned in a previous answer, the EU remains committed to implementing the JCPOA as a matter of respecting international agreements and of protecting our shared international security. We expect Iran to play a constructive role in this regard and to continue implementing all its nuclear commitments in full.