Iran Dismisses Nuclear Negotiations Amid External Pressures During Russian FM's Visit
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Synopsis
Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced that the country will not engage in nuclear negotiations under external pressure. This declaration was made during a joint press conference with Russian FM Sergei Lavrov, who emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to restore the JCPOA.
Key Takeaways
- Iran refuses talks under sanctions pressure.
- US sanctions hinder nuclear negotiations.
- Russia supports diplomatic resolutions for JCPOA.
- Regional conflicts, including in Syria, discussed.
- Trade between Iran and Russia increased by 13% in 2024.
Tehran, Feb 26 (NationPress) Iran has firmly stated it will not engage in discussions regarding its nuclear program while subjected to external pressures or sanctions, as articulated by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi during a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is visiting Tehran.
On Tuesday, Araghchi reiterated Iran's stance against holding direct conversations with the US unless it terminates its 'maximum pressure' sanctions approach, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Following the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018, sanctions were reinstated, leading Tehran to reduce its nuclear commitments under the deal.
"Negotiations conducted under pressure, threats, and sanctions are fruitless," Araghchi emphasized, noting that Iran has been in close discussions with Moscow regarding the potential revival of the JCPOA. Efforts to restore the agreement began in 2021 but have yet to yield significant progress.
Lavrov, on his end, reiterated Russia's support for diplomatic initiatives to restore the agreement, asserting, "We believe there is still a diplomatic avenue to revive the deal without resorting to threats or coercion."
He affirmed Moscow's commitment to finding solutions and stated, "The crisis was not instigated by Iran."
The two ministers also discussed regional conflicts, including those in Gaza and Syria, with Iran expressing its support for Syria's territorial integrity.
Lavrov characterized his discussions with Araghchi as "comprehensive, fruitful, and constructive," highlighting a 13 percent increase in trade relations between the two nations in 2024.
Additionally, he condemned unilateral sanctions on Tehran as "unacceptable," as reported by Russian state media. Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation to mitigate the impact of these sanctions.
Lavrov's visit to Tehran on Tuesday covered topics such as energy, trade, and regional security before he proceeded to Qatar to further his diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
