Total’s Iran Deal Gives Rouhani Space to Push Reform

The writers argue that in the summer of 2017 the time was now for European governments and international companies to ignore distractions from Washington and the Gulf countries and encourage economic reform in Tehran.

Doing so could open the door to wider political change. Without broader European support, those hoping that Rouhani can bring about an Iranian perestroika will lose out on a unique moment for economic gain with wider consequences for Tehran and the region.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Iranian presidential election, 19 May 2017 http://www.europeansources.info/record/iranian-presidential-election-19-may-2017/

ESO: Background information: A Transatlantic Approach Toward Iran? http://www.europeansources.info/record/a-transatlantic-approach-toward-iran/

ESO: Background information: Europe must combat Trumpization of Middle East (ECFR: Commentary, June 2017) http://www.europeansources.info/record/europe-must-combat-trumpization-of-middle-east/

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