Grossi: Progress Made in Negotiations with Iran + Video
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, quoting Mehr News Agency, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in his opening statement at the IAEA Board of Governors’ quarterly meeting that reviewing iran’s nuclear program has been a central focus in recent weeks-especially following June’s attacks by Israel and the United States on Iranian nuclear facilities.He expressed hope that negotiations with Tehran would produce positive outcomes within a few days.
He added: “As you recall, I have provided oral and detailed explanations on this matter at both this Board session and at the United Nations Security Council.My reports to the Board have also presented complete details. I have maintained continuous and systematic contact with Iran to address concerns raised and seek ways to restore essential cooperation between the agency and Iran.We have closely monitored recent developments in Tehran, notably a law passed by Iran’s parliament suspending cooperation with the Agency, which was approved by President Ebrahim Raisi on July 2.”
The Director General further stated: “In discussions with Iran, I expressed willingness to consider this development while stressing that national laws can set obligations domestically but do not impose requirements on the Agency. In this context, Iran’s Comprehensive safeguards Agreement remains fully valid as the only legally binding document defining rights and obligations for both parties regarding safeguards implementation. Thus, IAEA safeguards measures in Iran continue as they do in any other country party to such agreements.”
acknowledging Iran’s situation after attacks on its nuclear sites, he continued: “The Agency stands ready to review concerns and proposals from Iran insofar as they comply with its safeguards agreement. This has been precisely our focus during several weeks of talks in tehran and Vienna-to agree on concrete steps needed for verification activities in Iran.”
The IAEA chief emphasized: “Progress has been made. I sincerely hope these discussions will conclude successfully within days so our full necessary cooperation with Iran can resume. Implementing these practical steps will create an encouraging foundation for other critically important diplomatic consultations and processes leading toward positive results.”
He asserted: “Full compliance with rights and responsibilities under its NPT Safeguards Agreement remains essential for genuine enhancement of conditions regarding Iran. The prospect persists but is limited; however when clear goodwill and responsibility exist there is always enough time.This is my message for tehran-you will have sufficient chance to express your views. We are ready to listen-especially to perspectives from both Iran and other states involved-and assure you we will make every effort along this path.”
The quarterly meeting of the Board of Governors started today (Monday) and continues through Friday; agenda items include nuclear safety issues, implementation of safeguards agreements, as well as scientific research activities carried out by the agency.
Mikhail ulyanov, Russia’s permanent representative to international organizations headquartered in Vienna, previously indicated that at September’s Board meeting attention would focus largely on Iran and its nuclear program.
