Iran's Foreign Minister Declares Uranium Enrichment Principle Non-Negotiable
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Synopsis
Iran's Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, declared the non-negotiable status of the country's uranium enrichment principle amid ongoing negotiations with the US. He addressed the contradictory positions of US officials and emphasized the need for constructive discussions to move forward.
Key Takeaways
- Iran's uranium enrichment is non-negotiable.
- US officials present contradictory positions.
- Constructive discussions are essential for progress.
- Negotiations must be on equal footing.
- Focus on lifting US sanctions and nuclear program.
Tehran, April 16 (NationPress) Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated on Wednesday that the principle of his nation’s uranium enrichment is non-negotiable, as reported by the official news agency IRNA.
He expressed these views during a press briefing on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting, addressing some contradictory positions taken by US officials regarding Iran's nuclear program and uranium enrichment following their recent indirect discussions in Oman.
Araghchi emphasized, “What is certain is that Iran's enrichment is a real, accepted and undeniable fact, and we are prepared to foster trust concerning any potential concerns. Nevertheless, the principle of the enrichment itself is not negotiable.
He pointed out that in recent days, we have encountered various positions from the American side, some of which contradict each other, and this will not aid the negotiation process.
Araghchi remarked, “However, we must understand the American side's genuine views in the negotiation session. If they present constructive positions, I am optimistic that we can initiate discussions on the framework of a potential agreement. If not, and if contradictory and conflicting stances persist, the process will become challenging.”
He noted, “If the negotiations are conducted on equal terms and in a respectful environment, progress can be made. However, they will not achieve anything through pressure and imposition of their positions,” as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Araghchi and US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, are set to engage in their second round of indirect talks on Saturday. The focus of these discussions is primarily on Iran's nuclear program and the lifting of US sanctions imposed on the country.
Witkoff stated on Tuesday that Iran “must stop and eliminate” its nuclear enrichment program to secure an agreement with the United States, contradicting his previous assertion that Tehran's low-level uranium enrichment might be permissible.
