Reported by HPMM Group according to Trend News Agency   ;   Former prime minister of Italy Paolo Gentiloni highlighted his country’s “historical commitment” to broadening trade ties with Iran, stressing that Italy should adopt policies that are independent of the US, Trend reports via Tasnim News Agency.

Gentiloni, who was holding talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in New Delhi, expressed his views about international trade with Iran and the US’ attempts to block relations with Tehran.

“I think we have to insist on good economic relations with Iran,” he said. “This is a historical commitment of my country, and I hope that the international situation allows us to continue.”

He was also asked about the latest developments regarding the special purpose vehicle (SPV) – a financial mechanism devised by the EU to save the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and preserve trade with Tehran – and the impact of the US sanctions on Italy’s ties with Iran.

“We have always considered seriously the positions of the United States, but we need an autonomous policy, independent (policy),” he noted.