Русская версияIran's chief nuclear negotiator Saeid Jalili and EU foreign policy
chief Javier Solana agreed by phone to continue what Iran called
"talks in a constructive atmosphere," Iranian State media reported
Monday, Aug.
11.
"Solana and Jalili voiced satisfaction at the constructive trend of
negotiations in Geneva and the contacts afterwards," the television
broadcast said.
According to the report, the two had voiced the same willingness in
a phone call on Aug. 4.
Solana is the main point of contact between Iran and the six major
powers -- the UN's five veto nations plus Germany, which have
offered Iran a package of incentives in return for a freeze in
uranium enrichment activities. His office in Brussels confirmed the
conversation but would give no details.
Ambiguous response leads to new sanctions
Bildunterschrift:
Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift:
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes
The renewed willingness comes after Iran failed to give a clear
reply to the latest proposal by the world powers to either accept
suspension of uranium enrichment and avail itself of Western
political and financial incentives, or reject suspension and face
additional sanctions.
As a result of their ambiguous answer to this latest proposal, Iran
faces new sanctions announced by the presidency of the 27-member EU
on Friday.
Tehran, however, still wants to engage in negotiations to find a
settlement to the dispute though the state harshly rejects any
ultimatum or deadline. Iran has said its nuclear program is
intended solely to produce energy. The West, however, fears the
enrichment program could be a cover for developing nuclear weapons.
The new restrictions include tougher cargo inspections and
restrictions on public loans. The EU and the US have also imposed
restrictions on Iran's largest banks in addition to three sets of
sanctions previously agreed to by the Security Council.
A government spokesman said Sunday the new UN sanctions put into
force by the EU would be "fruitless," adding that Iran's firm
position in the nuclear dispute would not change with sanctions and
threats.
They retaliated against the European move by ordering the state oil
company to deposit oil revenues only in selected banks.
(Deutsche Welle)
more info >>
<< Back