Ebrahim Raisi, the president-elect of Iran, declared on June 21, 2021, that he is ready to take steps towards setting relations with Europe ‘on the right path’. This announcement comes in the wake of strained diplomatic ties between Iran and several European nations, largely due to the embattled Iranian nuclear deal.
Raisi, a 60-year-old cleric and judge, has been a dedicated insider in Iran’s political sphere since the age of 20. He secured victory in the country’s June presidential elections, set against a backdrop of economic turmoil and public discontent. His tenure is seen as vital to define Iran’s future relationship with Europe and to rekindle the golden age of diplomacy that the country has long yearned for.
Interactions between Iran and Europe have been turbulent over the last two decades, especially due to the complications surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly referred to as the Iran Nuclear deal. The deal, which involved the United Kingdom, France, Germany along with other international entities, has been a source of significant contention due to Iran’s alleged non-compliance with agreed-upon terms and the United States’ withdrawal from the agreement under former President Donald Trump.
In responding to questions about potential meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden, Raisi stated he would not meet with Biden even if economic and diplomatic sanctions on Iran are lifted. However, his primary focus remained coherent on mending the ties with his European counterparts. Raisi underlined that his government would support any diplomatic plans that could lift the harsh sanctions imposed on his country in exchange for the guarantee that Iran will curtail its nuclear program.
Raisi’s strategy presents opportunity and challenges, potentially signalling a shift in favour of more direct and positive relations with Europe. He emphasises the importance of shared interests, collective security and the resurrection of the JCPOA, to eliminate nearly all of the country’s refined uranium – a necessary component for developing nuclear weapons.
Of course, his approach to European relations is not without its challenges. European leaders and entities have repeatedly expressed grave concerns over Iran’s possible breach of the agreed terms under JCPOA. Raisi’s government will bear the challenge of fending off these concerns and establishing a coherent plan that ensures Iran’s adherence to its obligations. Raisi also faces the task of managing domestic expectations as massive public unrest over economic conditions continues to simmer underneath the surface.
The president-elect has a significant task ahead of him. He will need to navigate the nuances of reestablishing beneficial relations with Europe while addressing domestic discontent. His determination and readiness to set relations with Europe ‘on the right path’ is undeniably a momentous step towards this goal. Raisi’s ambition promises an interesting dynamic for the future of Iran’s foreign relations, one that acknowledges the necessity for constructive dialogue, mutual respect and the recognition of shared interests.
In essence, Raisi’s announced approach towards Europe suggests a crucial juncture in Iran’s diplomatic initiatives. It holds the potential to shift the status quo and presents a discernible opportunity for both Iran and Europe to rebuild trust and restore meaningful engagement. His tenure is indeed crucial and eagerly anticipated. It is hoped that the president-elect will guide the relationship between Iran and Europe ‘on the right path’ in his efforts to improve and restore diplomatic ties.
