Iran has concerns over WMD: Asefi
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Tehran, jan 9, IRNA -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi said here Sunday that concerns over weapons of mass destruction is serious, stressing Iran is also concerned about the issue. Addressing reporters at his weekly press briefing, Asefi added the Zionist regime which has destructive nuclear weapons is a serious threat to the region. "The Islamic Republic believes the WMD-equipped countries, particularly the Zionist regime, caused greatest problems for the region. "But the issue should not lead to trampling on other countries` legal and inalienable rights to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. All aspects need an overall study if we are seeking an accurate assessment," he said. He stressed the importance of creating a balance between the countries` needs and rights to enjoy peaceful nuclear technology. He said the special meeting of heads of working committees for Iran-Europe negotiations are held for coordination and pushing forwards the issues of talks. "Such specialized meetings are held to exchange views." He stressed that recent remarks by chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency Mohamed ElBaradei on the urgency to normalize Iran`s nuclear case was a clear indication to prove Iran`s peaceful measures. "The Zionist regime raises baseless claims to cover up its expansionist goals and policies. The regime`s policies are clear to all," the spokesman stated. He noted Iran and the United Nations are studying the opportunity for the Iraqis residing in Iran to take part in the upcoming election in Iraq. "We have certain legal limitations and do not recognize double citizenship. On the other hand we should survey ways to materialize the issue and draw formulas which will meet all." Pointing to President Mohammad Khatami`s visit to Africa, scheduled to begin this week, the spokesman said, "The Islamic Republic attaches special importance to ties and cooperation with Africa. "We believe Africa enjoys great potentials and can have broad cooperation with Iran. "Iran has established close ties with African states and (Khatami`s) visit will be a turning point in Iran`s cooperation with African countries." Asefi added Iran and African states will sign several documents for expansion of economic, political and cultural cooperation. In response to a question about the recent visit of the head of Iraq Islamic Party, Abdul-Mohsen Abdulhamid to Iran and the prospect of delay in presidential elections in the country, he said that it took place within the framework of Iran`s negotiations with various Iraqi political groups. Turning to the talks as effective, he said, "The Iraqi official was against postponement of the upcoming elections. We too believe that the elections should be held as scheduled. It is not a question of talking anyone into changing their minds. "He did not have anything against holding the presidential elections, but found the timing improper, given that it is not clear whether postponement will help promote security." The official said that if the elections are held on schedule, the grounds for establishment of security and withdrawal of the foreign troops will be prepared in time. "No matter when the elections are held, insecurity on the eve of balloting will be unavoidable. "Meanwhile, some groups intend to disrupt the elections by taking such measures either consciously or unconsciously. If the elections are not held on schedule on account of insecurity, there will be no guarantee that the security required for the balloting will be provided in six months. 2327/2326/1412
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