“Undoubtedly Iran has proved to be an independent country that relies on its own people and capacities, enjoys economic and cultural capabilities, and can be trusted for its steadfastness and stabilizing [role]", Qassemi made the remarks in a Wednesday interview with ISNA.
Qassemi said that political and economic relations between Tehran and the EU had improved as a result of the conclusion of the Iranian nuclear agreement and consultations between the two sides over different issues.
The agreement is– known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – Under the JCPOA, which was signed between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries on July 14, 2015, Tehran undertook to put limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against the country.The parties to the deal started its implementation in January 2016.
Iran is capable of fulfilling the economic demands of the EU as it can provide an intact market for investment following the removal of sanctions against the country under the nuclear deal, Qassemi said.
Qassemi warned that the EU was in a state of crisis and might even collapse as Europe was facing several challenges, including the conflict in Ukraine, economic woes, refugee crisis, rise of far-right nationalist parties, Brexit, and terror threats.
The EU needs to boost cooperation with key international players to overcome the challenges that have made the bloc's economy and security more vulnerable, he added.
The Iranian official, however, said that despite the existing challenges, the EU could still play a decisive role in promoting peace and dialog and setting an example for cooperation.
Elsewhere in his remarks, the spokesman said that Iran has been making great efforts to fight terrorism, violence and sources of instability in the region.