Synopsis
Iran and the US will continue negotiations on April 19 after a productive round of talks in Muscat. Both sides are optimistic about reaching a mutually beneficial agreement regarding Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.Key Takeaways
- Second round of talks set for April 19.
- Initial discussions were labeled constructive.
- Focused on nuclear issues and sanctions.
- Both sides favor a swift agreement.
- Location for the next talks likely to change.
Tehran, April 13 (NationPress) Iran and the US are set to engage in the second phase of their discussions on April 19, following the conclusion of their 'indirect' conversations this past Saturday in the Omani capital, Muscat, which were deemed 'constructive' by the Iranian Foreign Ministry.
The two-and-a-half-hour dialogue involved Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, focusing on Tehran's nuclear situation and the issue of sanctions relief, as stated by the ministry.
The statement revealed that both parties have consented to resume discussions next week, highlighting that upon exiting the negotiation site, the leaders of the respective delegations conversed briefly in the presence of the Omani foreign minister.
After the talks in Muscat, Araghchi addressed reporters, describing the initial meeting as 'constructive and characterized by a calm and respectful atmosphere,' as reported by Xinhua news agency.
He noted, 'No inappropriate language was exchanged, and both parties exhibited their dedication to progressing the discussions towards a mutually beneficial agreement from an equitable standpoint.'
The minister announced that the next round of conversations is 'scheduled for the same level next Saturday, although it is likely that the location will shift from here (Muscat).'
Both parties have decided to establish a general framework necessary for an agreement in the forthcoming round, with Araghchi indicating that both sides prefer to arrive at a resolution swiftly.
He mentioned that in the next round, 'we will aim to delve into the negotiation agenda, which will naturally include a timeline,' expressing optimism that the upcoming discussions will allow both sides to lay the groundwork for initiating 'substantive negotiations.'
The Muscat talks followed a statement from US President Donald Trump in early March, where he communicated a letter to Iranian leaders—delivered via the United Arab Emirates—proposing discussions regarding Iran's nuclear initiative.
Iran subsequently acknowledged receipt of the letter and expressed willingness for indirect dialogue.
