Statement from Official Opposition Foreign Affairs critic Paul Dewar on progress towards Iran nuclear deal

New Democrats welcome this interim deal on nuclear non-proliferation with Iran as a significant step towards ensuring a more peaceful and secure region.

This agreement shows what the international community can accomplish through hard work and effective diplomatic engagement, and we congratulate the countries involved for this achievement.

It is vital that the Canadian government now work with our allies, in particular the U.S., United Kingdom and France, and do our part to ensure this interim deal can be turned into a comprehensive solution on Iran's nuclear program, bringing the world closer to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. This deal, and any permanent agreement, must include verification and ensure greater security for our allies in the region.

It is important to remember this deal would not have been possible if the Iranian people had not had the courage to reject extremism and elect a government willing to negotiate. Of course much work remains in realizing the Iranian people's aspirations for democracy and human rights, but this is a meaningful step forward.