Iran reaffirms commitment to national interests in nuclear talks

Iran has signaled its firm commitment to pursuing its national interests as the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States gets underway in Geneva, Switzerland.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on February 26 that Tehran is fully prepared for the talks, which are focused on safeguarding its nuclear rights while seeking sanctions relief, Caliber.Az reports per Iranian media. 

He said the discussions are focused on nuclear issues, adding that Iran’s positions are clear both regarding the lifting of sanctions and the protection of its nuclear rights and interests.

Baghaei confirmed that Iran’s proposals on these issues have been conveyed to the Sultanate of Oman, which is mediating the discussions. He added that Tehran remains open to dialogue but will firmly defend its objectives throughout the negotiations.

The third round began on the night of February 25 with a meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and his Omani counterpart. Baghaei also indicated that the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) may join the talks.

The current round follows earlier meetings held in Muscat and Geneva earlier this month, against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington after a recent U.S. military buildup in West Asia.

By Sabina Mammadli