The latest developments in Iran and the situation in Afghanistan were the main topics discussed by EU foreign affairs ministers meeting at the Council on 14 and 15 September.

The debate on Iran addressed the whole policy set-up, including aspects such as human rights and the political situation after the June presidential election.The discussion also included the nuclear issue, following the handing over by Iran of new proposals on 9 September.

"We are all committed to meaningful negotiations with Iran to resolve the International Community's concerns about their nuclear programme", commented Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). He had previously talked by telephone with Iranian chief nuclear negotiator Said Jalili and they had agreed on a meeting on 1 October.

The EU High Representative for CFSP and six countries, United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia and China, lead the long-running negotiating efforts to reach an agreement over Iran's nuclear programme.

The debate further focused on the aftermath of the presidential elections in Afghanistan held on 20 August, where European Union has been supporting democratic process. The Council expressed support for Afghan institutions and agreed on the organisation of an international conference to discuss the country's future with the incoming Afghan government. It also expressed its trust and confidence in the EU's representatives on the ground in a complex situation.