<h3 class="post-title subpt">The lifting of the sanctions against Iran is a diplomatic breakthrough fully supported by The Elders and proof that positive outcomes can be achieved&nbsp;through&nbsp;sustained political dialogue.</h3><div class="quoteblock"><div class="quotetext">"This could and should be the foundation for further measures to improve the regional security environment.”</div></div><p align="center"><img src="/sites/default/files/migrated3/iran-supermarket-woman-man-morteza-nikoubazi-650.jpg"/><br /><em>Man and women in a supermarket in Iran. (Photo: Morteza Nikoubazi / The Elders)</em></p>
<p>The Elders welcome the lifting of sanctions against Iran as another important step in the process of normalising relations. It follows Iran’s implementation of its nuclear-related obligations under <strong><a href="http://theelders.org/article/elders-welcome-iranian-nuclear-agreement-b…; target="_blank">last year’s landmark agreement</a></strong>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://theelders.org/kofi-annan&quot; target="_blank">Kofi Annan</a></strong>,<a href="http://theelders.org/kofi-annan&quot; target="_blank"> </a>Chair of The Elders, said:</p>
<p><em>“Building confidence among former adversaries is a slow and painstaking process. Iran has demonstrated its adherence to the agreed plan of action over its nuclear programme. This could and should be the foundation for further measures to improve the regional security environment.”</em></p>
<p>The Elders have supported the P5+1 negotiations with <strong><a href="http://theelders.org/iran&quot; target="_blank">Iran</a></strong> from the outset, and will maintain their engagement in the region.</p>

<p>For media inquiries, please contact William French, Head of International Media at The Elders (+44 7795 693903 or [email protected])</p>