Foreign Secretary meets US Secretary of State for talks
Foreign Secretary condemns Jerusalem synagogue attack as he meets John Kerry for talks on violence in Middle East, Iran nuclear talks and relations with Russia.
Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond this morning welcomed US Secretary of State John Kerry for talks in London. Speaking after the meeting, the Foreign Secretary said:
It was a pleasure to welcome Secretary Kerry to London this morning. Our close relationship with the United States is, and will remain, the cornerstone of UK foreign policy. Alongside Secretary Kerry, I condemned in the strongest possible terms the appalling attack that took place this morning at a synagogue in Jerusalem, in which at least four people have been murdered in a place of worship. I call on all world leaders to step up and condemn this brutality. Both sides must do everything possible to de-escalate tensions, which are extremely dangerous for the Israeli and Palestinian communities.
Secretary Kerry and I discussed the resumption of talks today in Vienna between international powers and Iran on its nuclear programme. As negotiations enter a final phase ahead of the 24 November deadline, I believe a deal can be done. But we will not do a bad deal. These negotiations are extremely tough and Iran needs to show more flexibility if we are to succeed.
I also discussed with Secretary Kerry the continued Russian actions in Ukraine. Russia must be reminded consistently of its commitments under the Minsk agreement. We will continue to apply pressure against Russia until it meets those commitments.
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