Swedish MEP Sees Good Opportunities for Trade with Iran
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A Swedish member of the European Parliament expressed optimism about achievement of a comprehensive nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, saying the subsequent removal of anti-Iran sanctions could greatly boost trade ties between Tehran and Stockholm.
In an exclusive interview with the Tasnim News Agency, Bodil Ceballos of Sweden commented with an upbeat tone about a long-awaited deal between Iran and the Group 5+1 (Russia, China, the US, Britain, France and Germany) on Tehran’s peaceful nuclear program.
“I’m optimistic that Iran and the E3+3 will reach a long-term comprehensive solution that would ensure Iran’s nuclear program. The talks so far have been constructive but there are still significant gaps on some core issues which will require more time and effort,” she noted.
The MEP also praised a good history of relations between Iran and Sweden, expressing the confidence that trade ties between the two nations will increase once the sanctions imposed on Iran are lifted.
“Historically, Iran has been one of Sweden’s most important export markets outside Europe… If sanctions are lifted, I believe trade will pick up rapidly,” Ceballos added.
“My prediction is that trade will pick up quickly as soon as the sanctions are lifted. Swedish companies have a long history in Iran and the fact that there are more than 100,000 people with Iranian heritage living in Sweden creates strong ties.”
She further pointed to Europe’s increasing need for energy, stressing that the European states should find a way to reduce dependence on Russia, which now supplies the bulk of Energy to Europe.
“I’m sure Iran will be able to export some oil and gas to Europe if sanctions are lifted,” the MEP noted.
