During the meeting, Iranian deputy minister and chief of staff to Cyprus’ President emphasized developing bilateral cooperation in economic, political, cultural and educational areas.

Sarmadi pointed to European Union’s support of nuclear deal and said the collective reaction of the EU can prove effective against American officials’ remarks. He stressed that removing obstructions in banking transactions between Iran and Cyprus can provide the groundwork to expand economic relations. Cyprus as a member of EU can, in turn, help the union to better understand extremism and terrorism.

The Cypriot official, for his part, thanked Iran’s stance on Cyprus negotiations and stressed EU’s support of the JCPOA. Pointing to Cyprus’ determination on expansion of economic and political ties with Iran, he said Cypriot officials’ trip to Iran signifies their government’s resolve in this regard.