French business leaders in Iran in latest sign of sanctions thaw

French business leaders are visiting Iran in a bid to restore economic ties following the interim deal that eases Western sanctions against Tehran on condition that the regime ceases its nuclear programme.

Iran’s state TV says the 107-member French team is the largest in 30 years and was expected to meet private Iranian business leaders.

The visit follows similar delegations from the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, South Korea and other countries to have visited Iran recently to explore new economic opportunities. Oil giant Total and car maker PSA Peugeot Citroen were among the French companies seeking a return to the country.