Plassnik:: We have condemned the violence that erupted, in particular the attacks on the premises of embassies and consulates and we have unequivocally condemned this violence.
ET: Because the Austrian Embassy has today been one of those which has been attacked, in Teheran.
Plassnik: We had several incidents, as you know, it started with the incident against the Commission premises in the Palestine Territories, and then in Damascus and in Beirut and indeed today we had an incident in Teheran.
ET: There have been, haven't there, many appeals for calm and there have also been, as you said, condemnations of the violence and yet the situation does not seem to be coming under control. How concerned are you?
Plassnik: We are quite concerned and at this very moment the safety of our citizens is our main focus - we do what we can to prevent further violence. We are also reminding our countries, our partner countries, in the regions where such tensions could also erupt of their obligation under international law to protect diplomatic missions and to ensure also the safety of the citizens of the European Union.
ET: And are you satisfied with the replies you have had to that?
Plassnik: I think we are engaging in a good dialogue that also makes very clear our expectations that now this is a question of safety. I hear more and more voices, moderate voices, from the region also explaining that violence is not doing any service, that this cannot be legitimised or cannot be justified and that this is not furthering the common aim which is the deescalation and the reduction of tension.
ET: We have also heard that Iran has decided to introduce a cessation of all trade links witrh Denmark. What will the European Union or what should the European Union do about that?
Plassnik: The European Union is working together, we are working on common positions and we will consider our joint action when we are confronted with more than declarations that up to this moment is what I have been hearing of.
ET: This is a dangerous moment for Europe and for the world, isn't it?
Plassnik: This is a moment of tension, this is a moment where we have to do all to refrain from violence, to refrain from provocation and to face our responsibilities in this situation.
ET: Thank you very much Foreign Minister Plassnik
Plassnik: You are welcome. Thank you.
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