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EU seeks negotiated settlement to Iran's nuclear issue

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Brussels, Oct 17, IRNA
EU-Iran-FMs
The European Union Council of foreign ministers Tuesday reaffirmed the EU's commitment to a negotiated settlement to Iran's nuclear issue but also expressed concern that Iran has not suspended enrichment activities.

The Council in a statement said it discussed Iran's nuclear program over lunch this afternoon and noted that the door to negotiations remained open.

The full text of the EU statement is as follows:
"The Council discussed the situation concerning Iran's nuclear program. The Council commends the High Representative Solana's intensive efforts since June to encourage Iran to address IAEA Board and Security Council requirements and return to talks on long-term arrangements.

"The Council recalled that the proposals presented by the High Representative on June 6 as a basis for a long-term agreement are far- reaching and would give Iran everything it needs to develop a modern civil nuclear power industry while addressing international concerns.

"They would open the way for a new relationship with Iran based on mutual respect and expanded cooperation in political and economic fields.

"The Council expressed deep concern that Iran has not yet suspended its enrichment-related and reprocessing activities as required by the IAEA Board and UNSCR 1696.

"The Council recalled its statement on July 17 that if Iran did not comply with the Security Council's requirements, the EU would work for the adoption of measures under Article 41 of the UN Charter.

"It also recalled that in Resolution 1696 the Security Council expressed its intention to adopt appropriate measures under Article 41 if Iran did not comply. Accordingly, the Council believed that Iran's continuation of enrichment related activities has left the EU no choice but to support consultations on such measures.

"The Council noted that the door to negotiations nevertheless remained open. It reaffirmed its commitment to a negotiated solution, and that such a solution would contribute to the development of the EU's relations with Iran. It urged Iran to take the positive path on offer."
260/2322/1412