TEHRAN Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has highlighted that Iran and the United States have made substantial development in their ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations.In remarks following the 2nd round of talks in Rome on Saturday, he emphasized that both sides had reached a better understanding of particular concepts and objectives.The talks, which were moderated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, were kept in the Omani capital of Muscat on April 12 and in Rome on April 19.
These conversations, which are aimed at solving the enduring nuclear concerns in between Iran and the U.S., have included top-level engagement from both sides, with the Iranian delegation led by Araghchi and the U.S.
side represented by Steve Witkoff, Donald Trumps special envoy for West Asia affairs.At the close of the 2nd round of talks in Rome, which lasted for over four hours, Araghchi revealed careful optimism.
He mentioned, It was a good session with negotiations progressing, signifying that while the conversations had actually yielded favorable results, there was still a long road ahead.Araghchi validated that the delegations had agreed to continue their work and would reunite at professional level in Oman on April 23.
A 3rd round of top-level talks is set up for April 26 in Muscat.The Iranian foreign minister underlined the value of keeping a mindful method.
We hope that after the expert-level sessions next week, we will remain in a better position to evaluate the possibility of reaching an arrangement, Araghchi included.
He cautioned against speculating on the result before the talks had concluded, specifying that the results would be clear once the settlements reached a resolution.Speculations and personal interpretations with numerous programs always exist in negotiations, he said.
I do not confirm any of them.
The results will speak for themselves once we reach a result.He also stressed that the settlement process need to be treated with maturity and persistence.
Settlement is one of the tasks of the Foreign Ministry, and there is no need for buzz or excitement.
We are continuing our work with care and severity, Araghchi mentioned.
There is no reason for either extreme optimism or pessimism.A considerable point of discussion during the talks was the potential involvement of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
In response to a question about the existence of IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi in Rome, Araghchi clarified that the agencys function was not yet needed.
We are not yet in a position that requires the presence of the agency, he discussed, keeping in mind that the IAEA would be essential only if and when a final arrangement is reached.Despite Grossis see to Rome, which was reportedly a separate effort to consult with Italian authorities, Araghchi stressed that the focus of the indirect talks was strictly on nuclear problems.
Nothing other than building confidence regarding Iran's serene nuclear program, in exchange for the lifting of sanctions, is under discussion, he asserted.Sanctions elimination at the forefrontDuring these talks, Iran has stayed firm on its needs for the removal of illegal sanctions.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei reiterated on Saturday that Iran's goal is to secure sanctions relief with strong guarantees.
He highlighted that Iran is taking part in the negotiations with complete severity and readiness, but made it clear that any prospective arrangement should include dependable assurances concerning the lifting of sanctions.
Iran's nuclear program is totally tranquil, Baghaei specified.
Iran is prepared to eliminate any doubts in this regard.
He also underscored that the talks would remain directly focused on nuclear concerns, without any conversations on other topics.The diplomatic efforts to resolve the nuclear concern followed a troubled period, including the United States withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) under President Trump in his very first term.Araghchi has actually mentioned that reaching an agreement with the United States is possible, supplied Washington refrains from making unrealistic needs.
If they demonstrate severity and make reasonable needs, a contract is within reach, he remarked.The second round of talks, hosted in Rome, received appreciation for its positive environment.
Araghchi likewise thanked Italy for its efforts to help with the negotiations, acknowledging their important role in hosting the conversations.
Ahead of the Rome talks, Araghchi held a conference with his Italian equivalent, Antonio Tajani, to discuss mutual relations and local developments.Esmaeil Baghaei validated that the Iranian delegation had actually been totally devoted to the talks.
Iran got involved with total severity, he remarked, emphasizing that the settlements are crucial for bring back trust and finding a long lasting solution.Omans continued mediation: Moving to the next phaseIn a statement, Omans Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that both Iran and the United States have actually accepted get in the next stage of talks.
The ministry included that the objective of this new stage is to build on the progress made and ultimately sign a reasonable nuclear arrangement.
The envisioned agreement would ensure that Iran remains free from nuclear weapons while protecting its right to serene atomic energy, which all sanctions are raised adequately and permanently.The Omani Foreign Ministry worried that dialogue and openness are the only practical course forward.
A reliable and trustworthy understanding will benefit all celebrations, regionally and globally, their representative said.The next round of expert-level talks is set to start in Muscat on April 23, followed by a third high-level meeting on April 26.
This article very first appeared/also appeared in Tehran Times