S/PV.7522 Security Council

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. At this meeting, the Security Council will hear a briefing by Ambassador Román Oyarzun Marchesi, Permanent Representative of Spain, in his capacity as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). I now give the floor to Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi.

I have the honour to present the report of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006), in accordance with paragraph 18 of that resolution. The present report covers the period from 23 June to 14 September, during which time the Committee held an informal meeting on 1 September and carried out additional activities, using the no-objection procedure provided for in paragraph 15 of the guidelines for conducting its work. I should like to start by welcoming the conclusion by Iran, the P5+1 and the European Union on 14 July of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and to commend the negotiating parties for their joint efforts to find a comprehensive, long-term and adequate solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. I would further like to welcome the adoption on 20 July of resolution 2231 (2015), by which the Council endorsed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, whose conclusion, as affirmed by the Council in its resolution, marks a fundamental shift in its consideration of this issue. I should like to stress the fact that, during the current transitional period, up until the Security Council’s receipt of the report of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in which the IAEA confirms that Iran has taken a set of nuclear-energy-related actions in accordance with the provisions of resolution 2231 (2015), on the day known as Implementation Day, the measures imposed by the Security Council through resolutions 1737 (2006), 1747 (2007), 1803 (2008) and 1929 (2010) remain in full effect, and Member States remain under the obligation to apply them strictly and fully, with due respect for exemptions provided for in resolution 2231 (2015). The Committee remains fully committed to the implementation of all relevant resolutions and stands ready to provide guidance to those Member States that request assistance. In relation to past incidents investigated by the Panel of Experts, I would recall that the Committee reached out to the Islamic Republic of Iran for comment on several occasions. The Islamic Republic of Iran has not yet provided a response; the Committee continues to call on it to do so. The Committee continues to provide States and international organizations with assistance in implementing the relevant Security Council measures. In this regard, the Committee received additional information in relation to the proposal that an international organization provide technical assistance to the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Committee is continuing its consideration of the proposal and welcomes such collaboration on issues related to of implementation and compliance, and it encourages parties to continue to seek guidance from the Committee on the application of the Council’s measures. In accordance with paragraph 5 of resolution 1737 (2006), the Committee was notified by one Member State about the delivery of equipment to be used in a light-water reactor at the Bushehr nuclear plant. Similarly, in accordance with paragraph 15 of resolution 1737 (2006) and paragraph 4 of resolution 1747 (2007), the Committee was notified by one Member State that it had allowed for payments owed by a designated entity, under a contract that entered into force prior to its designation, to be made from that entity’s frozen funds. In addition, one Member State submitted two reports in accordance with paragraph 17 of resolution 1929 (2010). With respect to the adoption of resolution 2231 (2015), the Committee is continuing its constructive dialogue on the steps to be taken in the foreseeable future. In that connection, the Committee was notified by one Member State, in accordance with paragraph 22 of resolution 2231 (2015), that it had initiated preparatory steps in relation to establishing a stable isotope production centre at the Fordow facility and to removing stockpiles of Iranian low-and rich uranium in return for natural uranium. In view of the actions taken by Member States to implement the relevant Security Council measures, the Committee encourages Sstates that have not yet submitted reports to do so as soon as possible, in recognition of the fact that national implementation reports are an important means of promoting the implementation of sanctions measures. In connection with the Panel of Experts, I am pleased to report that, following the Security Council’s decision, contained in resolution 2224 (2015), of 9 June 2015, to extend the Panel’s mandate until 9 July 2016, the Secretary-General appointed on 30 June 2015 seven experts to serve on the Panel. On 28 August 2015, the Panel submitted its programme of work for the new mandate in accordance with paragraph 3 of resolution 2224 (2015). On behalf of the Committee, I would like to recognize the continued efforts of the Panel in assisting the work of the Committee. We look forward to close and fruitful collaboration with the Panel under its new mandate. As to the activities undertaken by the Panel over the past three months, I note that the Panel has participated in a number of events that are listed in the annex to the present report. Finally, while recalling that the primary responsibility for implementing the provisions of resolutions 1737 (2006), 1747 (2007), 1803 (2008) and 1929 (2010) rests with Member States, the Committee stands ready to facilitate implementation of these measures.

I thank Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to the members of the Council.

I wish to thank Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi for his briefing and for his leadership. The Security Council’s consideration of the Iranian nuclear issue is entering an important period of transition. Two months ago, Council colleagues roundly welcomed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, a landmark understanding reached among the P5+1, the European Union and the Islamic Republic of Iran. If fully implemented, the Plan of Action will prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Because of our combined diplomatic efforts, the international community will be able to verify that Iran’s nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful going forward, and we will have taken an important step in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons in the Middle East. The Security Council’s unanimous endorsement of the deal in resolution 2231 (2015) has helped lay a foundation for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action’s successful implementation. Over the long term, the Security Council must play an active role in supporting the deal and ensuring that resolution 2231 (2015) is fully enforced. As of today, we are still in an initial phase of the Plan of Action. Its commitments will not actually go into effect until 90 days after the resolution’s adoption. At that point, all the Plan of Action participants are to make the necessary arrangements and preparations for implementing their commitments. For Iran that will mean taking a series of initial nuclear-related steps, such as eliminating 98 per cent of its enriched uranium stockpile, removing thousands of centrifuges, repurposing the facility at Fordow, removing a key component of the Arak reactor and filling it with concrete, and making arrangements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for new transparency measures. During this interim period, however, the current United Nations sanctions remain in full effect and all States must continue to implement them fully. Similarly, the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1367 (2006) and the Panel of Experts should continue to carry out their mandates just as before, including answering inquiries about the sanctions, analysing information about compliance and investigating reported sanctions violations. Countries that detect violations should bring the information to the Committee for its review and action. As soon as the IAEA reports to the Security Council that Iran has completed all of its initial nuclear steps, resolution 2231 (2015) provides for a significant change in the United Nations sanctions architecture. When the report is received, the provisions of the previous Security Council resolutions will terminate and the Iran Sanctions Committee and its Panel of Experts will be dissolved. At the same time, however, resolution 2231 (2015) puts in place binding Chapter VII restrictions related to Iran’s nuclear, ballistic-missile and arms-related transfers, as well as ongoing sanctions on designated Iranian individuals and entities. Those measures will be in place for years to come. As long as these binding restrictions are in force, the Security Council has a vital role to play in ensuring their implementation. Going forward, the Council must be prepared to respond swiftly to any reports of illicit arms smuggling, prohibited ballistic-missile-related transfers, violations of the assets freeze and travel ban, or any other activity in violation of the resolution. As part of that effort, the United States will continue to work closely with its partners to stop and seize shipments that are in violation of resolution 2231 (2015), such as prohibited transfers of weapons and sensitive nuclear- and ballistic-missile-related technology. The Security Council should be proud of the role it played in helping to bring about the negotiations that led to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Over a period of years, the Council’s decisive action, combined with a sustained focus on the issue, supported diplomacy and defused tensions. We call on the Council to continue with the same determination to support the implementation of the Plan of Action and resolution 2231 (2015).

I would like to start by thanking Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi for his briefing and by expressing my appreciation for his efforts and those of his team to promote the work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). China has always believed that sanctions are not the goal of resolutions, nor a measure of progress in the work of the Committee. Under the current circumstances, the Committee should conduct its work in a balanced and objective manner. It should tackle such sensitive issues as individual violations of Council resolutions, both in terms of ensuring the implementation of those resolutions and in supporting and facilitating the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action so as to prevent the possibility of any measures adding to the complications of implementation. In that spirit, China will take part in the Committee’s various efforts in a responsible manner, while encouraging it to play its due role. In July, the Council adopted resolution 2231 (2015), which endorses the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action agreed on between the P5+1 and Iran on the Iranian nuclear issue. It is a good plan of action in that it is conducive to maintaining the international non-proliferation regime and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, thus having a positive impact on the settlement of other international and regional issues. It is to be hoped that all parties will work in concert to implement it. Agreement on the Plan of Action, however, is only the first step towards a proper settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue. What is more important is the follow-up. The Iranian nuclear issue itself is extremely complicated, with many problems that have to be addressed in the Plan of Action’s implementation, and no precedent to draw on. It should be anticipated that in a decade-long period of implementation, various questions, difficulties and challenges will arise. It is China’s hope that all the parties will continue to try to meet one another halfway while understanding and accommodating one another. It is essential to stick to the principles of synchronization and reciprocity in accommodating everyone’s concerns. The pursuit of one goal should not come at the expense of another, lest balance and equity be lost. China is pleased with the sound cooperative momentum being maintained between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Iran. We encourage Iran to further strengthen its communication and cooperation with the Agency and, in line with the road map signed with the IAEA, solve all the outstanding issues as soon as possible. China has continued to play a constructive mediating role during the entire negotiation process. In the future, China will also communicate closely with all the other parties, while contributing to promoting the smooth implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and playing a constructive role in securing a final and comprehensive settlement of the Iran nuclear issue.

I would like to begin by thanking the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1367 (2006) and the Panel of Experts for their continued work in supporting the Council’s resolutions on Iran. I particularly want to thank Mr. Oyarzun Marchesi for his continued leadership as Chair of the Committee. Like others, I welcome the successful conclusion to the negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. The agreement on 14 July on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and the adoption on 20 July of resolution 2231 (2015) constitute significant achievements for international diplomacy. I pay tribute to the work of the Council and my E3+3 partners in delivering those important agreements. I hope we can draw on that unity in the coming months when tackling other issues that threaten international peace and security, starting with Syria. At heart, those important agreements represent a historic shift in our approach to Iran. We now have an opportunity to reset our relationship with that country at a time of great regional instability. I hope all sides can seize it. Our focus must now be on the swift and full implementation of the Plan of Action. We hope that Iran will complete the agreed-on measures promptly, and give the international community confidence that Iran’s nuclear programme is, and will remain, exclusively peaceful. As the briefing reminds us, during the current transitional period, the bulk of sanctions will remain in place and must continue to be enforced in full. That includes all United Nations sanctions and all obligations on United Nations States Members arising from resolutions on the issue. In the implementation period that follows, we must remember that many binding restrictions, such as those on conventional weapons and ballistic missiles, will remain in place during periods outlined in the Plan of Action. The phased lifting of sanctions should act as an incentive for Iran to meet all obligations under the comprehensive agreement. A Council mechanism will be needed to monitor the implementation of the restrictions in resolution 2231 (2015), and we look forward to working together in the Council to set up that mechanism. We welcome the notifications from Member States about the delivery of equipment for use at the light water reactor at the Bushehr nuclear reactor power plant. We also welcome notifications received by the Committee about the use of designated funds to pay contracts entered into before designations came into force. This report reminds Member States that we must continue to report any suspected violations of Council provisions, in accordance with the requirements set out in the relevant resolutions. Turning to the work of the Committee, I am grateful for the continued crucial role it plays in supporting the enforcement of the relevant Council sanctions measures on Iran. I also welcome the ongoing work of the Panel of Experts and the appointment of seven experts to serve on the Panel. I look forward to working closely with all members of the Council on the next steps on this issue. I am grateful for the assistance provided by the Committee and by the Panel of Experts to Member States and international organizations, and for their participation in international meetings and conferences. But we remain disappointed at Iran’s continued failure to respond to past requests for information on various incidents of concern. Once again, we urge Iran to respond to the Committee’s requests. The United Kingdom remains committed to a peaceful and lasting solution to the Iran nuclear issue. As the British Foreign Secretary made clear during his historic visit to Tehran last month, the comprehensive nuclear agreement with Iran is in all our interests. For the international community it is the best way of ensuring Iran does not develop a nuclear-weapon capability. For Iran it can reset relationships with the international community and enable it to trade freely with the world to the benefit of all Iranians. And for both Iran and the international community this agreement is a chance to end years of enmity and to begin a new era of cooperation on combating the spread of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, on ensuring regional stability and on issues like counter-narcotics and migration. Therefore, the United Kingdom will continue to make every effort to implement the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to help start this process. We look to all parties involved to do the same.

I, too, would like to the Spanish Ambassador for his briefing on the quarterly activities of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). The Vienna agreement of 14 July between Iran and the E3+3, and the adoption a week later of resolution 2231 (2015) by the Council were historic steps in re-establishing confidence with regard to the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme. For 12 years, this question has occupied and worried the international community. The alarming expansion of Iran’s nuclear programme for over a decade led us to establish a significant sanctions regime, while keeping the door open to dialogue for starting serious negotiations. We support the Vienna agreement, as it attained all the objectives that my country had set for itself during the negotiations, namely, a 98 per cent reduction in Iranian uranium stocks, a two-thirds reduction in the number of centrifuges, a limit to the rate of uranium enrichment and a ban on enrichment activities in the underground site of Fordow. All of those things have significantly lengthened the time necessary for Iran’s swift access to nuclear weapons. By obliging Iran to modify the Arak reactor, we blocked access to a plutonium-based nuclear bomb. Finally, by guaranteeing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) oversight not only over Iranian nuclear facilities and over the integrity of the fuel cycle, but also, where appropriate, to non-declared sites, we are ensuring that the agreement will be strictly verified in the field. This agreement is based on a thorough verification on the ground of the commitments made by Iran. We have also taken requisite steps to restore sanctions should it be necessary if there are significant violations. Everything has been done to deter any violation of the agreement by the Iranian side. We shall judge based on evidence: the success of the agreement depends in large part on Iran, which will have to implement all measures provided for. In exchange, the nuclear-related sanctions will be progressively eased as Iran concretely honours its commitments and the IAEA is able to verify it. The Security Council, having endorsed it, is today the guarantor of the implementation of the Vienna agreement. We will take part in this exercise in good faith, of course, but also with necessary vigilance — and for the entire duration of the agreement. We will particularly ensure that the timetable set forth by the Vienna agreement and the resolution will be scrupulously upheld. In that respect, I think it would probably be useful to recall that just until implementation day — that is, until the IAEA confirms to us that Iran has implemented all the initial measures of the agreement  — all existing measures of Security Council resolutions remain fully in force. The Vienna agreement and resolution 2231 (2015) explicitly state this. That means that the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006) and the Panel of Experts supporting it must continue their activities, including as pertains to incidents already reported as well as those that may be reported by Member States. Furthermore, I hope, as indicated by the Ambassador of Spain, that the Committee, with the Panel’s support, can provide Member States with all the necessary support for the implementation of Security Council resolutions on Iran. The Vienna agreement is the best demonstration of what diplomacy is capable of today. While there was an accumulation of uncertainties, the agreement today provides a lasting foundation for a resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue. It is along those lines that we hope that all the national procedures needed for the full implementation of the agreement will be swiftly concluded.

I would like first to extend my thanks to the Permanent Representative of Spain for his valuable briefing and for his leadership in the work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). I would also like to thank the Panel of Experts for their efforts and the preparation of relevant reports. Jordan welcomed the agreement signed on the Iranian nuclear file and the diplomatic and political efforts deployed by all parties to reach that agreement. Jordan has always supported a diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, and any steps that could contribute to establishing regional security, peace and stability. In that context, we call upon the Committee to continue to perform its mandated tasks and follow up the application of the relevant resolutions during the transitional period until the agreement is applied and the Security Council receives the International Atomic Energy Agency report indicating that Iran has implemented all measures regarding its nuclear programme, pursuant to resolution 2231 (2015). We would also like to encourage States that have not submitted reports on steps taken for the application of the relevant Security Council resolutions to do so as soon as possible and to cooperate in a positive manner with the Panel of Experts, as the success of the work of the Committee depends upon the submission of those reports. In conclusion, we value the role of the Committee in assisting States and international institutions to implement the relevant Security Council resolutions.

We also thank the Permanent Representative of Spain for his briefing and for his leadership of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). New Zealand welcomes the mandate of the Committee and now more than ever urges the Committee and its Panel of Experts to continue their good work. New Zealand joins others in acknowledging the critical juncture we are at with regard to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and Security Council resolution 2231 (2015) and in addressing the Iranian nuclear issue. During this time it is essential for the credibility of the Council and the Plan of Action that the integrity of the sanctions regime against Iran remain intact. We acknowledge the fact that the Committee and the Panel of Experts are in an unusual position, but the Council position should be clear. We also urge the Panel of Experts to continue with its programme work, which is based on the premise that they are conducting business as usual until such time as Iranian obligations are met. We note that, with adoption day approaching, the 1737 Committee, along with a joint commission established under the Plan of Action, will have a significant role to play in authorizing exemptions to current sanctions to facilitate Iran meeting its commitments. However, we also note that only transactions formally exempted through the appropriate process will be considered legitimate. Member States have a responsibility to adhere to all sanctions regimes, and Council members in particular have a responsibility to demonstrate leadership in that regard. We urge all parties to approach the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and of resolution 1737 (2006) with the same positive intent and good faith that led to the agreement being reached. New Zealand is acutely aware of the challenges faced by Member States in implementing complex sanctions regimes such as the one designated in resolution 1737 (2006). Council members and Member States will all require guidance to manage expectations and clarify obligations under resolution 2231 (2015) and the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. We invite the 1737 Committee to consider how best to provide such guidance.

I join other Security Council members in expressing appreciation to the Permanent Representative of Spain as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006) for his briefing on the Committee’s work during the reporting period. The agreement reached on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action last July augurs well for international diplomatic efforts to enhance nuclear security. In the longer term, its implementation could be among the possible catalysts needed for sustained peace, security and stability in the Middle East region. At this juncture, I reaffirm Malaysia’s full and continuing support of resolution 2231 (2015). We look forward to the full and speedy implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action by all the relevant parties. Along with establishing a framework for monitoring and verification of Iran’s nuclear programme by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Plan of Action sets in motion a change of events and activities that will, over time, provide the necessary assurances concerning the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme. In that regard, we look forward to the upcoming commencement of the IAEA’s compliance verification activities with a view to declaring the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme, thereby paving the way for the full lifting of all United Nations sanctions against the country. The prospect of Iran’s rejoining the community of Nations that possess nuclear and nuclear-related technology for purely peaceful purposes is something we should welcome and endeavour to achieve without delay, not least with a view to alleviate the situation of ordinary Iranians who have had to bear the brunt and stigma of sanctions that have been imposed on their country. We regard the role of the 1737 Committee and the work of its Panel of Experts, Malyasia shares the view that both the Committee and the Panel of Experts continue to perform an important role in investigating, monitoring and reporting to the Council on compliance and allegations of possible violations of the United Nations sanctions regime. During the present interim period before the full application of the provisions of the Plan of Action, we believe that the Committee and the Panel of Experts continue to share a critical bridging function. In addition to its ongoing activities, the Panel of Experts might also consider undertaking a more vigorous outreach in order to explain and clarify provisions of the Plan of Action to all Member States and relevant partners and stakeholders. We commend and support the Panel of Experts for taking initial steps to that end, as indicated in its recently adopted annual programme of work. Mindful of the significant wealth of knowledge and expertise accumulated by the Committee and by the Panel of Experts over the years, we also believe that there is potential and scope for continued cooperation between the Panel of Experts, the IAEA and relevant partners and stakeholders with regard to the implementation of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The agreement on the Plan of Action is a significant landmark, as it seeks to address concerns about nuclear proliferation. It also serves to reaffirm the principle of the peaceful uses of nuclear technology, which is in line with the regime set up by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). On that note, Malaysia reaffirms the centrality of the NPT regime in stemming the proliferation of nuclear weapons and related technologies. We continue to strongly believe that the pursuit of nuclear non-proliferation must be matched by a similar pursuit of general and complete nuclear disarmament. We note that the efforts towards nuclear disarmament by the nuclear weapons States have stalled somewhat in recent years, and we call upon them to reverse that trend. While achieving a nuclear-weapon-free world may not be possible in our lifetime, it is our collective responsibility to strive towards removing the threat of nuclear holocaust from succeeding generations to the furthest possible extent.

We thank Ambassador Román Oyarzun Marchesi for his briefing. We would like to express our appreciation for his diligence and commitment in fulfilling the tasks of the Committee under his responsibility. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela once again expresses its satisfaction over the adoption of the landmark agreement reached between the P5 + 1 and the Islamic Republic of Iran on 14 July. This achievement is a triumph of diplomacy and dialogue over bellicose pronouncements that promote confrontation and mistrust. This agreement shows that, when there is political will and commitment among parties, solutions can be reached that promote international peace and security in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. In view of recent developments concerning the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, Venezuela welcomes the progress shown in implementing the Plan as adopted on 20 July in resolution 2231 (2015). We reiterate our full support for the implementation of this historic effort, which, in the short-term will result in the definitive lifting of the sanctions regime applied to that brotherly country, as well as other illegal, unilateral and coercive measures that were imposed on other States owing to their cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran. In that regard, we call on all Member States to uphold and comply with the provisions set out in this broad agreement. We are pleased that dialogue and cooperation have been maintained between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as underscored in its report of 27 August. We encourage the parties to intensify their efforts in order to resolve all outstanding issues between the IAEA and Iran by the end of 2015. We acknowledge the important role played by the Agency in resolving all issues related to the Iranian nuclear programme. We hope that cooperation will continue to be strengthened in order to move ahead with the measures relating to the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan. The implementation of the Plan of Action should ensure the Islamic Republic of Iran its sovereign right to the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes with a view to promote its technological and energy independence. We note with satisfaction how over the past several months the adoption of the Plan of Action has contributed positively to the start of a new phase of diplomatic relations based on mutual respect and dialogue between Iran and several countries in the international community. The Islamic Republic of Iran shares borders with major countries in Asia and the Middle East, which is why cooperation between Iran and other countries in the region is of extreme importance in facing common threats to peace and stability in the region. Iran’s contributions should not be underestimated. Any decision of importance regarding this area should be based on cooperation, so that our fellow country can play proactive role in finding solutions that would contribute to the stability and security of this unstable region, while dealing jointly with threats that stem from terrorism and violent extremism, among other challenges. Furthermore, the strengthening of peace and stability in the Middle East requires the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the region, as agreed upon in 1995 at the Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which also indefinitely extended the Treaty. The nuclear agreement between the P5+1 and Iran is a positive sign that encourages us to redouble our efforts in order to achieve this important goal as soon as possible, in order to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and other categories of weapons of mass destruction in the region. Similarly, this new phase in the relationship between Iran and some States members of the international community paves the way for establishing alliances of cooperation in different areas. The lifting of sanctions against Iran will make it possible to re-establish economic, commercial and financial links with countries that want to do business with this important trade partner, which will lead to the achievement of greater well-being and progress for the Iranian people and the region. With regard to the work of the Committee, we emphasize that, in this crucial phase, it is important that the Committee be able to contribute in a constructive way to addressing the new challenges and goals that are emerging in the face of this new dynamic, taking into account the current political situation. We would appreciate it if, in this new phase, the Committee would reorient its tasks mainly towards providing assistance to States and international institutions for the implementation of the relevant measures adopted in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Similarly, it would also be a good idea for the Committee to provide support and advice to Member States that are looking for technical guidance regarding new cooperation initiatives on Iran on issues that fall under the mandate of the Committee.

I thank Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi for his briefing and we commend the Panel of Experts for their work. As this is the first meeting of the Council on the subject after the adoption of resolution 2231 (2015), we would like to reiterate our support for the agreement between Iran and the P5+1 on the Iranian nuclear programme. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, endorsed by resolution 2231 (2015), presents a clear road map for the implementation of the agreement. It is our hope that it will lead to an early resolution of all outstanding issues in Iran’s nuclear programme. We support dialogue, diplomacy and the resolution of crises through such agreements. In view of this, we urge the parties to implement the agreement transparently, in good faith and for the progress of the people of Iran. We further welcome the continued cooperation of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006) with members. This is vital to upholding and ensuring the integrity of the sanctions regime. Finally, let me commend the Chair of the Committee for his astute leadership and assure him of our continued support.

Allow me to thank Ambassador Román Oyarzun Marchesi of Spain for his report to the Council and to commend him for a successful stewardship of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). On 20 July, the Security Council unanimously adopted the landmark resolution 2231 (2015) endorsing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreed by the E3+3 and Iran. We strongly believe that a deal, which is based on Iran’s implementation of changes to its nuclear programme in return for the phased lifting of sanctions, has offered a real, durable and verifiable path to resolving the decade-long dispute. At this crucial moment, Lithuania reiterates that all Security Council sanctions remain in effect and must be robustly implemented by all Member States and, in particular, by the members of the Council. In this connection, we welcome the Committee’s readiness to give guidance to Member States and international organizations on the implementation of all relevant Security Council resolutions. We also reiterate our concern that Iran, while taking steps in complying with the JCPOA, continues to disregard certain provisions of the Security Council resolutions, in particular those related to its ballistic missile programme and transfers of conventional weapons and related materiel. Iran should without delay extend cooperation with the 1737 Committee, inter alia, by providing information requested by the Panel of Experts in conduct of its investigations. Lithuania welcomes the reappointment of the experts to the Panel and strongly supports their ambitious programme of work submitted to the Committee on 28 August. We encourage the Panel to continue its investigations, particularly on new reported episodes of non-compliance. Iran’s continuous and full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is a vital element in restoring much needed trust between Iran and the international community. We note the report by which the IAEA confirmed that Iran has taken steps of nuclear-related actions in accordance with resolution 2231 (2015). We call on Iran to provide the international community with verifiable guarantees of the exclusively peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. In conclusion, Lithuania believes that, if implemented fully and in good faith, the JCPOA will become a fundamental element in building trust between Iran and the international community. It will open the door to a steady improvement of relations and greatly contribute, in a positive manner, to regional and international peace and stability.

We thank the Permanent Representative of Spain, Ambassador Román Oyarzun Marchesi, for the presentation of the revised 90- day report of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006). We commend and support the work of the Committee and the Panel of Experts on an issue to which the international community attributes fundamental importance. We are pleased about the adoption by the Security Council, on 20 July, of resolution 2231 (2015) endorsing the recently concluded Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which was the first success of diplomacy in the Middle East region in decades and is a landmark towards a comprehensive and long-lasting solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. Now, during the transitional period, we urge the Government of Iran to undertake specific actions, stipulated in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, and comply with its provisions in order to expedite the easing of the sanctions imposed by the Security Council. Finally, we remain committed to the measures imposed by the relevant Security Council resolutions on these issues towards implementation, taking into account the exemptions provided for in resolution 2231 (2015).

We thank Ambassador Román Oyarzun Marchesi for presenting the quarterly report of the work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006) and for his excellent guidance of its work. Chile welcomes the agreement reached on 14 July between Iran and the E3+3 group. Its implementation will contribute to resolving the discrepancies with regard to the scope and the future of Iran’s nuclear programme. We believe that the implementation and verification of the agreement will preserve the integrity of the multilateral non-proliferation regime and will strengthen regional and global security. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is the cornerstone of the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime and the implementation of its three pillars — disarmament, non-proliferation and the right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy — should be balanced. Therefore, in this discussion, we should not forget the need to make progress on the obligations under article VI of the Treaty pertaining to nuclear disarmament. The establishment of internationally recognized and verifiable nuclear weapon-free zones is a political and legal commitment that brings us closer to the universal ideal of a society free of nuclear weapons. To that end, we reiterate the importance of establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East and it is essential for the international community to contribute to it. It is imperative that all actors implement this agreement, as set out in resolution 2231 (2015), which requires specific actions, but also responsibility and moderation by the actors in their statements. In conclusion, we reiterate that Chile, as a member of the Council and as a member of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency, will provide all necessary support for the effective and smooth implementation of the agreement.

I, too, should like to thank the Chairman of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006), Ambassador Oyarzun Marchesi, for presenting the quarterly report on the Committee’s activities from 23 June to 14 September. With respect to the settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, Chad notes the statement of support issued by the European Union Foreign Affairs Council on 20 July for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, adopted in Vienna on 14 July, and the adoption of resolution 2231 (2015). We also note the vote that took place in the United States Senate on 10 September, endorsing the Plan. We take note of the statement made by the President of the United States that the vote represented a victory for diplomacy. Moreover, Chad notes that the Iranian Parliament has established a 15-member committee to review the agreement and take a position on it by the end of the month. Chad encourages all parties to fully implement the Plan once all national procedures have concluded. We reiterate that, pursuant to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Iran has the right, in accordance with paragraphs 1 and 2 of article IV of the Treaty, to develop research, production and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The agreement on the Iran nuclear issue demonstrates that, when the international community is determined to resolve a crisis, it can do so. Chad reiterates its appreciation for the diplomatic efforts of Germany, the five permanent members of the Security Council, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the Islamic Republic of Iran. On the basis of the lessons learned in this matter, Chad encourages all States, including the permanent members of the Security Council, to urgently resolve the issue of non-proliferation in the rest of the Middle East. In that respect, it would be helpful to request the States of the region that are rushing headlong into a race for weapons of mass destruction or that already possess such weapons, to cease such activities and to establish a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. I turn now to the activities of the 1737 Committee. Chad encourages Committee members to continue to assist States and international organizations in the implementation of measures called for by the Security Council. We welcome the appointment by the Secretary- General on 30 June of seven experts with a mandate through July 2016, pursuant to resolution 2224 (2015). We note the programme of work submitted by the Panel of Experts on 28 August. In conclusion, in the light of rising instability in the region, which is exacerbated by the terrorist threat, we underline the need for concerted efforts, including on the part of Iran, to settle the various regional crises.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as representative of the Russian Federation. We thank the Permanent Representative of Spain for his report on the work undertaken by the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 (2006), which he chairs, during the most recent reporting period. The Russian Federation welcomes the successful conclusion of talks to resolve the situation concerning the Iran nuclear programme. We are pleased by the adoption of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and hope that, as set forth in and endorsed in resolution 2231 (2015), it will enter into force in the coming weeks. We believe that the Plan not only allows for a satisfactory resolution of the Iran nuclear issue, in full respect for Iran’s right to engage in peaceful nuclear activities, but also serves to strengthen confidence in the Middle East, ensuring the lifting of obstacles to normal regional economic and political cooperation, with the full participation of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Active preparations are now under way to begin the practical implementation of the JCPOA on a number of different fronts. On 25 August, an extraordinary meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency was held, at which the Agency was mandated to undertake verification activities in the framework of the JCPOA. This important step forward will allow the Agency to reach agreement with Tehran on specific parametres for future verification activities. We believe that there is a need for the Board of Governors to adopt, in due course, a separate resolution to ensure Agency participation in the implementation of the JCPOA on a sound footing and to consolidate the continuity of the process. We are carefully following the processes of consideration of the agreement by the legislative bodies of the United States and Iran. We hope that this will all lead to a successful and smooth conclusion. With Iran, we too are taking preparatory measures on certain aspects of the JCPOA, which provides for bilateral Russian-Iranian projects, including the establishment of stable isotope production in Fordo and the shipment of low enriched uranium from Iran. Pursuant to the provisions of the JCPOA, 18 October is the so-called date of adoption, after which Tehran will begin taking practical measures to bring its nuclear programme into conformity with its obligations under the JCPOA. The United States and the European Union members of the P5+1 will begin to prepare the legal framework for the lifting of their unilateral sanctions on Iran. We have no reason to doubt that all sides will honour their obligations in good faith.