Iran, EU at odds on research activity, Asefi
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Tehran, March 5, IRNA
Iran-Nuclear-Asefi
There are differences of views between Iran and the European states on Tehran's nuclear research works, said Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hamid-Reza Asefi here Sunday.
Asefi told domestic and foreign reporters the Europeans maintain there should be no nuclear research while Tehran emphasizes on going on with its nuclear research activities.
"Continuation of research is among our enshrined rights. It is not part of industrial enrichment and all countries can launch research activities," he reiterated.
"Once the research activities are carried out covertly, they can cause concern," he said.
Since Iran's research is being conducted under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors and cameras, there is no reason for concern, he stressed.
On the agenda of talks between Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Larijani and representatives of the EU3 (Britain, Germany, France), he said Iran's research activity was among major topics of discussion.
Asked about the Russian proposal, Asefi said, "It should be worked out. It should be completed by adding some other topics and once the ground is prepared, it is ready to be raised and discussed." The spokesman stressed if unpredictable events happen in Monday session of the IAEA board of governors, the situation will change and other issues will be set forth.
"Tomorrow will be a crucial day for the IAEA," he said, "The agency will face a big trial in which it will show how it can defend its members as well as its own prestige and credibility."
He urged the IAEA to refrain from politicizing the issue and to try to carry out an expert work.
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