President Rouhani Urges Closer Iran-Belarus Ties
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani described Belarus as “a friendly country” and said the Islamic Republic is prepared to boost cooperation with the Eastern European country in diverse political and economic fields.
“Belarus has always been a friendly country for Iran and Tehran is ready to strengthen economic and business relations (with the country), especially in scientific and modern technology fields,” Rouhani said Saturday at a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in China.
Iran wants closer ties with Belarus, he said, adding that cooperation between the Islamic Republic and Eurasia would enhance the Tehran-Minsk relations.
Lukashenko, for his part, said his country is resolved to develop relations with Iran in all political and economic areas, adding that Tehran is a key regional partner for Minsk.
He further described as “wise” Iran's stance on a unilateral move by the US to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and said taking unilateral actions and violating international obligations undermine international law.
In a unilateral move on May 8, US President Donald Trump announced his country’s withdrawal from the nuclear agreement between Iran and the Group 5+1 (Russia, China, the US, Britain, France and Germany).
Following the controversial decision, Rouhani said Iran weighs plans to remain in the agreement with the other five parties, provided that they ensure full benefits for Iran.
