Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 15
By Taleh Mursagulov - Trend:
The European Union (EU) intends to complete the preparation of the special-purpose vehicle (SPV) to maintain relations with Iran after the recent US sanctions, Tarja Cronberg, the ex Labour Minister of Finland and the chair of the European Parliament delegation for relations with Iran, said at a meeting with Gholamhossein Shafei, President of Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines & Agriculture (ICCIMA), Trend reports via Iranian media.
She noted that some countries have ceased their cooperation with Iran, and many others are also planning to do so.
The EU is willing to implement the SPV soon, so that import and export operations between Iran and other countries can be carried out smoothly, Cronberg said.
"The UK and France are strictly working on this SPV. It is a new experience for both Iran and Europe. Though, lately, there has been a slight delay in the process," she said.
Shafei noted that the implementation of the SPV will bring great opportunities, because, Iran, apart from currency exchange, plans to cooperate with Europe in terms of barter trade.
"Iran has faced sanctions in various years. So it is not a new issue. Therefore, both sides, positive and negative, of the sanctions should be studied," Shafei said.
As it comes to the positive impacts of the sanctions, Shafei said, Iran, in order to eliminate sanctions-related issues, had to rely on its own potential and now, many goods which used to be imported before, are produced within the country.
On the other hand, we cannot deny the negative impact of the sanctions, Shafei said, adding that economical and employment problems can serve as examples.
Shafei added that with Europe's, as well as Finland's help, Iran will find new ways to meet its needs.
The US claims that sanctions do not cover humanitarian fields, foodstuff and medication supplies, Shafei said, but in reality, well being of Iranian citizens is neglected. If not so, he added, then why there are sanctions imposed on imports of spare parts for planes and restrictions on the supply of raw materials to Iran's pharmaceutical plants.