UN nuclear watchdog holds ;very productive; talks with Iran

USPA News - The United Nations (UN) nuclear watchdog and an Iranian delegations held "very productive" talks this week on how to advance a long-stalled international investigation into suspected nuclear weapons research by Tehran, they said in a joint statement on Tuesday. Addressing reporters following talks at the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna on Monday and Tuesday, representatives from both sides described the talks as "very productive" during which Iran presented a "new proposal on practical measures," although no specific details were made public.

"Delegations of the Agency and the Islamic Republic of Iran had a very productive meeting covering past and present issues," both sides said in the joint statement. "Iran presented a new proposal on practical measures as a constructive contribution to strengthen cooperation and dialogue with a view to future resolution of all outstanding issues." Iranian Ambassador Reza Najafi said it presented the unspecified proposal as a contribution to foster cooperation with the UN inspectors. "The agency and Iran discussed this proposal substantively," he told reporters. "I believe with the submission of this new proposal by Iran we have enabled to open a new chapter of cooperation. The ultimate goal would be resolution of all remaining issues." Following the talks, both sides agreed to schedule a further meeting to be held on November 11 in the Iranian capital of Tehran. International concerns regarding Iran`s nuclear activities have been increasing for decades, but Iran`s newly-elected president, Hassan Rouhani, is seeking to reduce tensions with the West. The Iranian government has repeatedly stated that its nuclear program is for the peaceful purpose of providing energy, but many countries contend Iran is seeking to develop nuclear weapons and may be close to obtain them.