Official speeches and statements - April 6, 2021

1. Iran - Statement by Mr. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs (Paris - April 3, 2021)

I spoke to my Iranian counterpart, Mr. Javad Zarif, this morning.

I welcomed the future resumption in Vienna of discussions on the nuclear issue. I emphasized the constructive role played by the E3 to get these discussions resumed, building on the decisive efforts led by France, Germany and the United Kingdom to preserve the JCPoA since 2017.

I urged Iran to be constructive in the forthcoming discussions. They must allow us to identify in the next few weeks the necessary action for a complete return to compliance with the nuclear agreement. This is the goal declared by all the States Parties to the JCPoA, as well as the United States. France will participate in a pragmatic, demanding way.

At a time when everyone is publicly displaying their determination to engage in these negotiations in good faith, with the goal of a swift agreement, I called on Iran to refrain from any further violation of its current nuclear commitments which is likely to undermine the momentum for resuming discussions.

2. International Criminal Court - Announcement of the lifting of sanctions by the United States - Statement by Mr. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs (Paris - April 2, 2021)

I welcome the American authorities’ announcement on April 2, 2021 of the lifting of sanctions hitting the International Criminal Court, particularly Ms. Fatou Bensouda, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, and Mr. Phakiso Mochochoko, Head of the Jurisdiction, Complementarity and Cooperation Division.

This decision is excellent news for all those committed to helping fight impunity, to multilateralism and to an international order based on the rule of law.

France reaffirms its unfailing support for the International Criminal Court and its staff, independence and continued efforts to improve the way it operates. It will continue to cooperate actively with the Court.