Iran to continue nuclear research: Asefi
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Tehran, March 5, IRNA
Iran-Asefi-Nuclear
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hamid-Reza Asefi said here Sunday Iran would go on with its nuclear research inside the country.
Talking to domestic and foreign reporters at his weekly press conference, he said, "Threat, intimidation and blackmailing will not have any effects on Iran's decision in this respect.
The Iranian officials cannot act against the public will.
"The mistake West is making is that it thinks Iran is after bargaining," he said.
He stressed Iran's right to have access to peaceful nuclear energy and recommended the West "not to think it will lose, if it recognizes the country's rights".
Asefi highlighted the importance of continuing nuclear talks and said, "This will show Iran's intends to settle the nuclear case through negotiations."
He added Iran's readiness to continue talks on its nuclear program indicates the country's transparent performance and that no illegal work is underway in Iran.
The spokesman pointed to recent remarks by the French President Jacques Chirac who recommended Iran to avoid anger and said the Islamic Republic of Iran would not leave the negotiating table.
"Iran is ready to hold talks with European and non-European states."
He said no results would be achieved through creation of more crises, adding, "If situation worsens, Iran will not be the only country to incur damage. The opposite side will suffer more damage.
Asefi said the meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s Board of Governors on Monday would be regarded as a criteria for South and Third World countries to evaluate the IAEA.
He called on the IAEA to prevent political measures.
"Tomorrow will be an important day for the IAEA. The international body will take a big test which in turn will show how it defends rights of its members as well as its prestige."
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