Wednesday 4 July 2012

The Latest from Iran (4 July): "Neither Side Understands the Other" in Nuclear Talks

0525 GMT: Back to the technical talks on Tehran's nuclear programme in Istanbul, where the Iranian and 5+1 (US, UK, France, Germany, China, Russia) delegations were in discussions until 1 a.m.

The two sides agreed on further exchanges between Iran's deputy nuclear negotiator Ali Bagheri and the European Union's Helga Schmid, but beyond this, there were few signs of advance --- the meeting mentioned only "charting next steps and continuing discussions".

A well-placed Iranian officials summarised the sentiment on both delegations, ""Sometimes I think that neither side understands each other."

Limited information indicated no change in positions from the May and June stalemates at formal political talks in Baghdad and Moscow. The 5+1 group focused on demands that Iran stop enriching uranium to 20% and close its second  enrichment facility at Fordoo. They continued to refuse any significant concession on sanctions against Tehran. 

The Islamic Republic might accept a deal allowing 5% enrichment inside Iran, with a guaranteed supply of 20% uranium; however, at this point, it is taking the general position that argues that the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty classifies enrichment as an "inalienable right" that it should not be expected to give up.


from EA WorldView: EA Iran

Posted via email from lissping

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