Council conclusions on the Iranian nuclear issue (Foreign Affairs Council meeting - Brussels, 16 December 2013)

The Council adopted the following conclusions:    

"1. The Council welcomes the recent success in nuclear talks between the E3+3 and Iran, chaired by the High Representative and endorses the agreement on a Joint Plan of Action reached on 24 November in Geneva. This agreement is a long-awaited signal of the commitment of all sides to build trust and reduce tensions and to continue diplomatic efforts towards a comprehensive solution to the major concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.    

2. A swift implementation of the voluntary measures by all sides is now key. Iran has to implement its commitments in good faith. For its part, the Council is committed to take the necessary steps and to suspend those EU sanctions as set out in the Joint Plan of Action immediately after the IAEA has verified the implementation of the nuclear-related measures by Iran and on the basis of a recommendation by the High Representative."    

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