Iran ready for dialogue with EU to boost security, stability in region

TEHRAN, Feb 21 (KUNA) -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that his country "to talk with its friends in the European Union to strengthen security and stability in the region, as well as continue the fight against terrorism." According to Iranian local media, the remarks by Rouhani were made during a meeting with visiting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Sigrid Kaag.
"Tehran welcomes further deepening of ties with the EU member states, including the Netherlands and seeks to promote these relations to serve the interests of both nations, Iranian President Rouhani added.
With regard to Iran' nuclear program, the Iranian leader said "Iran has had good cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the 9 reports by the agency confirm that Tehran has lived up to all its commitments despite the other side." President Rouhani also referred to the accusations that Iran is sending missiles to Yemen as completely incorrect and baseless, saying "efforts should be focused on the immediate end of the war, ceasefire, helping the innocent Yemenis and, ultimately, preparing the ground for beginning of intra-Yemeni dialogue." Meanwhile, the Dutch foreign minister said that the European Union and the Netherlands are determined to maintain and develop relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran in all fields.
Kaag added, 'Dutch companies are ready to participate more actively in Iran's projects for new technologies, agriculture and energy saving, and the Dutch government encourages companies to expand their activities in Iran." (end) mw.mb