'Iran-Europe ties unfazed by US bids'

IRIB - Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Ahani has downplayed the impact of unilateral US sanctions on existing ties between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Europe.

Exchanges between Iran and Europe reflected a surge during recent years despite Washington's sanctions and limitations against Tehran, Ahani said in his address to a two-day conference on Iran-Europe relations in Tehran on Tuesday.

“Iran and Europe are inevitable partners,” he added.

He further stated that Iran-Europe ties cannot be overlooked despite desperate efforts by the United States to hinder relations between the two.

Ahani also emphasized that despite ups and downs in political ties between Iran and Europe, the two sides proceeded with persistent scientific and cultural cooperation.

The official said that Iran and Europe share common interests and policy positions on mutual and international issues, including the anti-drug campaign and terrorism.