Ahmed J Versi
Iran’s Embassy in London was reopened as the same time as the British Embassy in Tehran on August 23.
“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to develop its relations with all countries based on mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs,” Iran’s Charge d’Affaires to London, Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh, said at the opening. He added that both countries have “always tried to maintain interaction by emphasising commonalities. Relations based on these principles will serve the interests of all nations”
The embassy was opened in the presence of Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Mehdi Danesh-Yazdi, who said relations should be based on “cooperation, mutual respect, understanding and good faith.” He later on told The Muslim News that “if the UK adheres to these principles, then we will have a brighter future.”
The Minister did not know how long it would take the UK to remove the sanctions. “Since we have agreed with 5+1 on nuclear issue and the resolution 2231 adopted by the UN Security Council, the sanctions should be removed in total. If any particular country wishes to continue with and prolong the sanctions against Iran that would be against the agreement and against the UNSC, since we have shown readiness to cooperate with the international community. We have removed all suspicion around our nuclear facilities and nuclear programme.”
Acting Permanent Secretary at the Foreign Office, Deborah Bronnert, who represented the British Government, said, “There are a lot of challenges and history to overcome” to build relations.
Chairman of the British-Iranian Chamber of Commerce, Lord Lamont said there was “great opportunity to develop trade and business in Iran”. He added that Iran can play “an important role in the region” and that the improving relation between Iran and the West “should not be a deterrent to other countries in the region.”
Former Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, got a warm welcome for his role in improving relations with Iran.“We are two very proud and great nations with great histories.”He added that “there are lots of commonalities that we have to search for. What is frustrating is that not enough is known in this country about all the positive things about Iran. It has a very vibrant population. I hope and believe that one of the consequences of this historic day is that there will be far better understanding of both countries.”
British Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond, reopened the British Embassy in Tehran.
[Photo: (LtoR) Former Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, Iran Deputy Foreign Minister, Mehdi Danesh-Yazdi, Iran’s Charge d’Affaires to London, Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh and Acting Permanent Secretary at the Foreign Office, Deborah Bronnert. Photographer: Ahmed J Versi/The Muslim News]
