German FM: Nuclear Iran would pose threat to entire region

German FM: Nuclear Iran would pos… JPost – Diplomacy & Politics.

 

By JPOST.COM STAFF

 

09/09/2012 15:31
Following meeting with Barak, Westerwelle emphasizes shared concerns over Iranian threat, says “a nuclear-armed Iran is not an option”; defense minister lauds security cooperation between the two countries.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak, German FM Guido Weste

German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle emphasized the concerns his country shared with Israel over Iran’s nuclear program, following a meeting with Defense Minister Ehud Barak on Sunday.

“A nuclear-armed Iran would not only pose a threat to Israel but to the stability of the entire region. A nuclear-armed Iran is not an option,” he said.

He said that Germany would maintain sanctions and diplomatic pressure on Iran, adding that there was still room for diplomacy. “We urgently call on Iran to enter into substantial negotiations,” he said.

“We greatly appreciate the German government’s views on Iran,” Barak said during the meeting, calling Germany a “leading partner” in the international effort to use diplomacy and sanctions to stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Barak also lauded the close security cooperation between the two countries, specifically mentioning the signed contract for a sixth submarine.

He further thanked Germany for for its contribution in strengthening the Palestinian Authority, the West Bank and Gaza and in promoting peace and normalization.

“Israel’s relationship with Germany is long-standing and based on a basic belief in democracy, value and memory, and we greatly appreciate your friendship,” Barak told Westerwelle.

Explore posts in the same categories: Uncategorized

Leave a comment