Political consultations held by State Secretary Simona Leskovar and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The high officials expressed satisfaction with the positive development of bilateral relations, particularly in economic cooperation and trade. They also addressed cooperation in other areas and within international organisations. Iran nuclear deal, situation in the wider Middle East, including Syria, the Middle East peace process and Yemen were among the matters discussed. Continued implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is paramount for security and stability in the Middle East; the efforts of the EU and its Member States for upholding the deal are crucial, including the establishment of a new EU mechanism to ease trade and financial transactions with Iran (INSTEX).
State Secretary Leskovar outlined the current developments in the EU and its neighbourhood, many of which were among the topics of the recent Bled Strategic Forum, also attended by Deputy Minister Araghchi. She underlined the importance of multilateralism with an efficient UN at its core, a priority for Slovenia in many respects – from human rights to the rule of law, settlement of outstanding issues and peaceful resolution of disputes. State Secretary Leskovar expressed concern over the disruptions of the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and emphasised the importance of respecting international law and engaging in dialogue to prevent the escalation of tension. Slovenia is also concerned about the reported violations of the rights of human rights activists is calling for legal procedures that ensure fair trial and respect for fundamental human rights standards.
The Iranian delegation was also received by Foreign Minister Dr Cerar.