Brussels, 03/05/2004 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission is disappointed by the efforts made by Iran in human rights matters, Emma Udwin, spokesperson to Commissioner for External Relations Chris Patten, told EUROPE, after the meeting between Mr Patten and the Iranian Foreign Minister, Kamal Kharrazi, in Brussels on Monday. Mr Kharrazi recently met Romano Prodi, President of the European Commission, and Javier Solana, High Representative of the EU for CFSP.
On Monday, Mr Kharrazi began a tour to convince Europe's leaders of the efforts made by his country in improving its co-operation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which will once again examine Iran's nuclear programme and submit its report in June. The Commission awaits this report with great interest. During talks, the Commission has not hidden its disappointment on progress made by Iran in terms of human rights, which it feels are "insufficient" and "too slow", explained Emma Udwin. The Commission also reiterated its consternation at the exclusion of Iranian reformist candidates from the parliamentary elections of February (EUROPE of 24 February). The Commission hopes to be able to take up negotiations again to conclude a trade and co-operation agreement with Iran, but is still unable to say when this will be, concluded Ms Udwin.
Mr Solana stressed that Iran must act transparently in its co-operation with the IAEA, said an official. Both men shared their concern over the situation in Iraq. Whereas Mr Kharrazi voiced his scepticism at the possibility of transferring power to the Iraqis by 30 June, Mr Solana expressed his confidence, saying that the transfer of sovereignty would take place on 30 June as planned. Mr Solana also asked Iran for its active and public support to the political process in Iraq and the work of the United Nations on the ground.