Iran Announces Upcoming Indirect Nuclear Talks with US in Rome
Iran’s Foreign Minister announced that the fourth round of indirect nuclear talks with the US will be held in Rome. This round is mediated by Oman, focusing on reviving the JCPOA and addressing sanctions. Preceding talks involve consultations with E3 nations. Araghchi emphasized the importance of negotiation content and criticized US sanctions during discussions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on Wednesday that the fourth round of indirect nuclear talks with the United States will take place in Rome on Saturday. This announcement came during a press conference following a Cabinet meeting in Tehran, where Araghchi addressed ongoing negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program and the related sanctions imposed by Washington. The mediation role of Oman was highlighted, as it facilitates these discussions, which are part of efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Emphasizing the logistics of the venue, Araghchi noted that the choice of Rome had been made by Oman due to technical considerations, a factor he indicated holds little significance for Iran. “Of importance to us are the contents of the negotiations and the mediator,” he remarked, underscoring Iran’s focus on the substance of the discussions rather than the location.
The upcoming talks in Rome will be preceded by consultations between Iran and the three European nations— the United Kingdom, France, and Germany— which are also signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement. These consultations are set to occur on Friday. While discussing the current dynamics, Araghchi acknowledged that the influence of the E3 has diminished largely due to their alignment with US policies, yet he expressed Tehran’s willingness to keep European actors engaged in the process.
Additionally, he criticized recent US actions, including the imposition of new sanctions during the negotiations, stating that such measures send a “negative message” concerning diplomatic efforts. Araghchi also commented on the absence of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from the current discussions, mentioning, however, that it would play a pivotal role if an agreement is reached.
The Iranian Foreign Minister conveyed that no specific timeframe has been established for the talks’ resolution, asserting that Iran is not pursuing a prolonged negotiation process. The history of these indirect talks includes previous rounds held in the Omani capital, Muscat, as well as a session in Rome, demonstrating a pattern of strategic diplomacy in these ongoing discussions.
In summary, the fourth round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States is set to commence in Rome this Saturday, with Oman’s mediation playing a crucial role. While addressing challenges, such as sanctions and E3 influence, Iranian officials express a commitment to constructive dialogue. The outcome of these talks could impact not only the JCPOA’s revival but also broader geopolitical relations in the region. Negotiations will continue, with an emphasis on meaningful content rather than simply the location of discussions.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
