Iran's FM warns US sanctions threaten nuclear talks' credibility

Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, addressed the ongoing nuclear negotiations during the Cabinet meeting on April 30, offering a candid assessment of the talks and the impact of external factors, particularly U.S. sanctions. 

Araghchi emphasised that provocative actions by the opposing parties during the talks could undermine the credibility of their commitment, Caliber.Az reports per Iranian media.

"If the opposing parties engage in provocative actions during the negotiations, it could call into question their seriousness," he remarked.

The Foreign Minister also expressed concern over the negative implications of new U.S. sanctions, stating that they send a discouraging message to the negotiation process. "We are aware of the differing views within the U.S. and the activities of various lobbies, and we monitor all these matters, making decisions accordingly," he added.

Despite these challenges, Araghchi reassured that the negotiations are continuing. "Any negotiation inherently involves differences. If there were no differences, there would be no need for negotiations," he noted, reaffirming that the talks remain on track.

In a bid to move the process forward, Araghchi revealed plans for the next round of discussions, which will take place in a European country. "We are prepared to hold the next round of talks with the three European countries (Germany, UK and France) in Rome," he confirmed, announcing that Rome will host the third round of negotiations.

However, Araghchi did not shy away from criticising the role of the three European countries involved in the talks. He argued that their policies had led them to play a lesser role in the negotiations.

"In my view, the three European countries, due to their wrong policies, have played a lesser role in the negotiation process. However, we do not desire this situation, and that is why we have expressed our readiness to continue the talks in Rome," he said.

Finally, Araghchi reiterated the importance of lifting the sanctions that have caused significant economic strain, stating that Iran expects the release of blocked funds as part of the sanctions removal. "Blocked funds are part of the sanctions that must be lifted," he emphasised, signalling Iran's demand for concrete steps to move the negotiations forward.

By Aghakazim Guliyev