European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement reached between the U.S. and Iran, emphasizing its importance for stability in the Middle East, freedom of navigation, and the global economy. At the same time, she called on all parties to proceed without delay with the full implementation of their commitments, while reiterating the EU’s position in favor of peace, regional security, and energy independence from strategic chokepoints.
Her statement reads as follows:
“I welcome the agreement reached between the US and Iran, following persistent diplomatic efforts by many partners.
The priority now is its swift and full implementation by all parties involved.
This agreement should allow for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Freedom of navigation must be restored without fees or restrictions. This is vital for the stability of the region and for the global economy.
The agreement also paves the way for broader negotiations on peace and security in the Middle East. At the same time, it should lead to the termination of Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, as well as its destabilizing activities in the region.
Of course, there can be no peace in the Middle East as long as Lebanon continues to be ravaged by conflict. Once again, Europe calls on all sides to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and to proceed with the implementation of a substantive ceasefire.
In Evian, France, G7 leaders will meet with partners from the Gulf countries and the wider Middle East region. Europe is ready to play its part.
This crisis also sends a clear message. Once again, energy dependencies have been used as a tool for pressure and geopolitical influence.
We must diversify our energy supply routes and develop alternative export corridors in order to reduce our dependence on the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
This issue, along with many others, will be at the center of discussions in Evian.
