Amano unapologetic for serving US interests in IAEA
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Berlin, Jan 9, IRNA -- The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency Yukiya Amano was unapologetic for serving US interests in the UN nuclear watchdog amid Iranian accusations he was biased, the news magazine Der Spiegel said on Sunday.
Asked whether he felt embarrassed by recent WikiLeaks revelations in which US diplomats termed Amano's selection as IAEA director as a victory and strengthening of American influence in the Vienna-based organization, Amano replied it was 'not necessarily a disadvantage', if the US thought his selection was in line with their interests.
The latest statement followed earlier accusations by Iran that Amano was one-sided when it came Tehran's nuclear program.
Iranian nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi had pointed out Amano was biased.
'(IAEA chief Yukiya) Amano must take care that he does not lose his legitimacy by taking a political stance,' Salehi was quoted saying earlier by the German press.
Salehi reaffirmed his country was still ready to cooperate with the IAEA, but wanted to issue a 'friendly, but serious warning.'
'Does Amano want to deliver an excuse for an attack on us?' Salehi asked.
'Does Amano want a catastrophe?'
Iran has repeatedly emphasized that its nuclear issue should 'not be politicized,' referring to efforts by less than a handful of western powers which have tried to stir up a political campaign on the matter.
OT**1416
Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 30177839
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