AFP, Vienna, March 3, 2010  – The European Union on Wednesday called for a ’clear response’ to Iran, saying it was ready to support a further round of sanctions against the Islamic republic over its controversial nuclear drive.
’The European Union remains ready to engage with Iran in order to reach a negotiated solution to the issue, should Iran take concrete decisions toward that end,’ according to a joint EU statement read out by Spain to a meeting of the UN atomic watchdog.
’However, Iran’s persistent failure to meet its international obligations require a clear response, including through appropriate measures,’ the statement said.
’The European Union would support action by the UNSC (UN Security Council) if Iran continues not to cooperate with the international community over its nuclear programme. The European Union stands ready to take the necessary steps to accompany this UNSC process.’
The statement was read out to the 35-member board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which is holding its traditional four-day spring meeting in its Vienna headquarters this week.