Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met with the Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi, where he affirmed “his country’s commitment to continuing its cooperation with the IAEA as a committed member of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Weapons.”
Araqchi said, in a post on the “X” platform: “We held important and transparent talks with the Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi. We are ready for dialogue on the basis of our national interests and legitimate rights, but we are not ready to negotiate under pressure and intimidation.”
He added: “Iran will continue its full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency as a member of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and it has never left the dialogue table regarding its peaceful nuclear program.”
In a statement before his visit to Tehran, Grossi stressed “the necessity of finding ways to resolve the situation diplomatically regarding the Iranian nuclear program,” noting that “the Iranian authorities must be aware that the international situation has become increasingly tense and that the room for maneuver has begun to shrink, and it is necessary to find Ways for a diplomatic solution.”
Grossi’s trip comes a week before the International Atomic Energy Agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors meets in Vienna with the European parties to the 2015 agreement, Britain, Germany and France, “to consider whether pressure on Iran should be increased given its lack of cooperation.”
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What are the key outcomes expected from Iran’s dialogue with the IAEA regarding its nuclear program?
Time.news Interview: Iran’s Commitment to Nuclear Cooperation
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we explore the most pressing issues in global affairs. Today, I’m joined by Dr. Emily Carter, an expert in international relations and nuclear non-proliferation. Thank you for being here, Dr. Carter.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me.
Editor: Recently, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held discussions with Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the IAEA. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to cooperating with the IAEA and its readiness for dialogue, but also stated that they’re not open to negotiations under pressure. How significant is this meeting, in your view?
Dr. Carter: This meeting is quite significant. It shows that despite the ongoing tensions and pressures from various international actors, Iran is still willing to engage with the IAEA. By reaffirming its commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Iran signals a desire to maintain a dialogue on nuclear issues, which can be a pathway toward reducing tensions in the region.
Editor: Araqchi’s statement about being ready for dialogue based on national interests raises questions about what those interests might be. What do you think Iran is aiming to achieve through this dialogue?
Dr. Carter: Iran’s primary goal is likely to ensure its sovereignty and national security while navigating the complex landscape of international diplomacy. By positioning itself as a committed member of non-proliferation treaties, Iran seeks to legitimize its nuclear program and reduce the likelihood of military action against it. Additionally, they want to secure economic benefits from the international community, which often hinge on nuclear negotiations.
Editor: You mentioned the subject of pressure in negotiations. How do you interpret Araqchi’s insistence on not negotiating under pressure?
Dr. Carter: This is a clear signal – Iran is asserting its sovereignty and pushing back against Western demands, particularly from the United States. Remarks like these suggest that Iran is not willing to be seen as capitulating under external pressures. Instead, it aims to maintain a position of strength, indicating that they expect discussions to be based on mutual respect and recognition of their rights.
Editor: In the backdrop of these discussions, how do you assess the role of the IAEA in facilitating Iran’s compliance with non-proliferation obligations?
Dr. Carter: The IAEA plays a crucial role in monitoring nuclear programs and ensuring compliance with international agreements. For Iran, cooperation with the IAEA is essential to rebuild trust with the global community. If Iran can demonstrate transparency and accountability, it may ease some sanctions and isolate the hardliners who oppose engagement. Grossi’s role as the IAEA Director is vital, as he must navigate the agency towards constructive outcomes in this sensitive environment.
Editor: What potential impacts could result from these ongoing dialogues on regional and international stability?
Dr. Carter: If the dialogue opens up avenues for cooperation, we could see a reduction in tensions not just between Iran and the West but also among Gulf States, who have been wary of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. However, if the talks are unsuccessful or perceived as ineffective, it could lead to an escalation in military posturing, both from Iran and its adversaries, thus destabilizing the region further.
Editor: what should we watch for in the coming weeks and months related to Iran and the IAEA’s discussions?
Dr. Carter: We should keep an eye on the upcoming meetings and the tone of the communications from both sides. Any constructive agreements, even small ones, would be a positive sign for peace. Conversely, if we see heightened rhetoric or new sanctions, it may indicate that the situation is deteriorating. Ultimately, these interactions will be key in shaping not just Iran’s future nuclear trajectory, but also broader geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights. It’s clear that the situation remains complex but engaging. We appreciate your expertise on this critical issue.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important developments. I look forward to seeing how the situation unfolds.
Editor: And thank you to our listeners for tuning into this insightful conversation on Time.news. Stay tuned for further updates on global affairs.