Iran's Reaction to Germany's Request for Improved Relations with Israel

The spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry reacted to remarks made by Sigmar Gabriel, the Deputy Chancellor of Germany, stating that the Islamic Republic has "completely different views from Germany's policies" regarding certain issues in the Middle East. Sigmar Gabriel, who arrived in Iran at the head of a business delegation for a three-day visit, urged Iranian officials to improve their relations with Israel if they wish to expand long-term economic ties with Germany and Europe. According to ISNA news agency, Marzieh Afkham, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, said on Monday, July 29, that concerns and views of the Islamic Republic regarding the threats posed by Israel and the "roots of the crisis in the region" will be discussed during meetings with the German delegation. She emphasized that the "main part" of the German delegation's visit is to discuss the grounds and prospects for bilateral cooperation. According to Afkham, there has been a history of "constructive" contacts and activities between the two countries in the areas of political and economic cooperation, as well as consultations on various international issues and crises. The large business delegation accompanying the Deputy Chancellor of Germany consists of over 60 members, including executives from Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Siemens, and the Federation of German Industry and Commerce. Meanwhile, Iran's ambassador to Germany expressed hope that Volkswagen would "begin operations in Iran by the end of this year." According to IRNA news agency, Ali Majedi also mentioned that the international director of Airbus is part of the German delegation and that "initial steps" have been taken regarding the supply of passenger aircraft. The German economic delegation is the first European delegation to visit Tehran after the nuclear agreement between Iran and the 1+5 group. Germany was part of the six global powers negotiating with Iran over Tehran's nuclear program, which ultimately led to a comprehensive agreement despite strong opposition from the Israeli Prime Minister. The lifting of international sanctions could mean the return of countries like Germany to the economy and investment in Iran after years. However, according to Bijan Zanganeh, Iran's Minister of Oil, no memorandum of understanding will be signed during the German delegation's visit, and the development of relations between the two countries' companies is contingent upon resolving insurance and banking issues. Zanganeh also announced that the fifth joint commission between Iran and Germany will be held in late summer or early autumn.