New Delhi, Feb 27: Negotiators from Iran and the United States have concluded a third round of indirect talks over Tehran’s nuclear programme in Geneva, with both sides reporting progress and agreeing to continue discussions in Vienna, Austria next week.
The high-stakes negotiations, mediated by Oman, were held amid mounting regional tensions and concerns that failure to reach an understanding could escalate into military confrontation. The next round is expected to take place in Vienna, Austria, perhaps along with the technical-level discussions scheduled perhaps on Monday, March 2 as reported by he international media.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who facilitated the talks, said to media that the two sides had made “significant progress” and described what he termed unprecedented flexibility from the American side. He indicated that consultations would now take place in both capitals before negotiations resume “soon”.
Iran’s delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who said the parties were “close” on many issues and more serious about reaching a settlement than in previous rounds of diplomacy. He described the discussions as constructive, saying agreement had been reached on certain points while differences persisted on others. He confirmed that the next round of talks would be held in less than a week.
Tehran said “important” and “practical” proposals were advanced during the latest session concerning Iran’s nuclear activities and the potential lifting of sanctions. According to Iranian state media, as reported by the international media negotiators reaffirmed Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy. Iran is also believed to have opposed proposals requiring the transfer abroad of Iran’s stockpile of approximately 400 kilograms of enriched uranium.
However, reports indicate that Iranian officials may have put forward some concessions, though details have not been made public. One reported option under discussion would allow Iran to resume uranium enrichment at minimal levels after a suspension period of three to five years, subject to international monitoring.
In return, Iran has sought the removal of economic sanctions that have strained its economy. Abbas Araghchi said to regional media that sanctions relief was a central demand in exchange for any nuclear limitations.
The outcome of the negotiations may also hinge on the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, is expected to play a key role in any future monitoring or verification arrangements should a framework agreement be reached.
While both sides have characterised the talks as productive, officials acknowledged that critical differences still remain, and the prospects for a comprehensive deal remain still uncertain.
