Iran prioritizes access to frozen funds in upcoming talks with US

Iran has confirmed that the issue of unfreezing its foreign assets will be a topic of discussion in upcoming negotiations with the United States.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei stated that FFree access to Iran's foreign assets is one of the subjects of negotiations," Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The comments come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington, with the unfreezing of Iranian assets being a critical point of contention. The funds, which have been frozen in various international accounts due to sanctions, are seen as a significant economic lifeline for Iran, and their release could have broad implications for the country's economy and international relations.

He emphasized that sanctions relief must be comprehensive and includes Tehran’s access to its assets blocked in foreign banks due to US sanctions. "Effective termination of sanctions is a key term that must include a diverse set of commitments. Ensuring free access to Iran’s resources and assets is our right."

Baghaei stressed that Iran’s fundamental negotiating principles remain unchanged. "Entering the details of any negotiation must be within the framework of broad outlines agreed upon by both sides," he said.

"Uranium enrichment inside the country and the effective removal of sanctions are Iran’s red lines and will be pursued with seriousness."

In 2018, President Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and major world powers, prompting Iran to exceed the uranium enrichment limits set by the deal and reduce the oversight of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

In February, the IAEA released a report expressing concern over Iran's uranium enrichment activities, with Iran now enriching uranium to up to 60 per cent purity, nearing weapons-grade levels. Tehran has consistently denied any intent to develop nuclear weapons.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei addressed the role of European nations in the nuclear negotiations, stating, "We hope the Europeans will play a constructive role." He emphasized that Iran’s ongoing engagement with neighboring countries and other Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) participants demonstrates the Islamic Republic's good will.

Baghaei also criticized US pressure tactics, asserting, "The maximum pressure policy is not limited to Iran; it is being pursued against other countries like China and disrupts free trade. It ultimately violates the human rights of individuals subjected to sanctions."

By Vafa Guliyeva