Technical talks will resume this week�on implementation of the November 24 interim nuclear deal between Iran and the 5+1 Powers.
The first set of technical talks, lasting four days in Vienna, was held last week. Issues included Iran�s suspension of enrichment of 20% uranium and the easing of US-led sanctions. The International Atomic Energy Agency also visited Tehran last week, discussing issues such as the inspection of the Arak heavy-water nuclear reactor, due to be completed in late 2014.

Last week�s talks were overtaken by public friction over the US Treasury�s addition of 19 Iranian companies and individuals to a blacklist for supporting Tehran�s nuclear program. However, at the weekend, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif assured that the implementation of the interim agreement will continue.
mpanies and individuals for �providing support� for Tehran�s nuclear program.

On Tuesday, Iran�s lead negotiator, Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi,�confirmed the imminent resumption�of the technical discussions after he met his counterpart for the 5+1 Powers, the European Union�s Catherine Ashton, in Brussels.

Appearing on State TV last night, Foreign Minister Zarif said the continuation of the talks was defeating Israel�s �Iranophobia� campaign, which had tried to undermine the interim agreement through pressure on Washington: �The Islamic republic will continue the path�because we believe that our nuclear program is completely peaceful and those who have created threats are the threats themselves.�

By EA WorldView

 

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