Iran and France discuss navigation in the Strait of Hormuz

Tehran (ANTARA) - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot discussed navigation issues in the Strait of Hormuz during a telephone conversation, according to the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday (18/6).

The discussion took place following reports that France is seeking to launch a joint mission with the United Kingdom to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

Previously, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Tehran does not require assistance from countries outside the region to normalise shipping in this strategic waterway.

“The parties emphasised the importance of safe navigation in accordance with international law in the Strait of Hormuz and expressed the need to ensure the security and stability of this vital strategic route for international peace and trade,” the statement read.

In the early hours of 18 June, Iran and the United States signed a remote memorandum of understanding (MoU) regulating the cessation of military conflict that began on 28 February.

The MoU also establishes a schedule for the lifting of the United States naval blockade and the restoration of Iranian shipping activities in the Strait of Hormuz.

Furthermore, Iran has committed to not developing nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme will be discussed in a separate agreement.

Both nations are expected to hold negotiations regarding this issue within the next 60 days. For Tehran, the expected outcome of this process is the lifting of the sanctions that have long been imposed on Iran.