Paris Insists on Security Guarantees Before Supporting UN Sanctions Removal
PARIS: France has signalled that it wants an active role in the next phase of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme and warned that it will not support the lifting of United Nations sanctions unless it is satisfied with the terms of a final agreement.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Friday that any lasting settlement must address not only Iran’s nuclear activities but also its ballistic missile programme and regional influence through allied groups.
Speaking to French media, Barrot stressed that sanctions relief would require approval from the United Nations Security Council, where France holds permanent membership and veto power.
He said the concessions expected from Tehran must be matched by strict guarantees, adding that France would carefully assess any proposed agreement before endorsing the removal of international sanctions.
European Powers Push for Greater Involvement in Negotiations
Meanwhile, France, Britain and Germany are seeking a larger role in shaping future negotiations after playing a limited part in recent diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
The latest memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran provides a 60-day period for negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Any final agreement is expected to be presented to the UN Security Council for endorsement.
European officials have reportedly expressed concerns that a final accord could fall short if critical issues, including Iran’s missile capabilities and regional policies, are left unresolved.
Barrot reiterated that France intends to play a significant role in determining the outcome of the process. He noted that Paris was instrumental in the diplomatic efforts that led to the 2015 nuclear agreement and remains committed to ensuring that any new arrangement delivers meaningful and verifiable commitments.
He added that France’s objective is to secure substantial concessions from Iran while contributing to long-term regional stability and a durable resolution of the nuclear dispute.
