Iran’s Foreign Minister announced the fourth round of US-Iran nuclear talks is set for Saturday in Rome. The venue choice, from Oman, is primarily logistical. Talks will aim to revive the JCPOA and address US sanctions. A prior meeting with E3 parties is planned for Friday. No set conclusion timeline exists, though Iran seeks timely discussions.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on Wednesday that the fourth round of indirect nuclear talks with the US will take place in Rome this Saturday. This information emerged during a Cabinet meeting in Tehran, where Araghchi answered questions regarding the ongoing discussions about Iran’s nuclear program and the implications of US sanctions.
The choice of Rome as the venue was made by Oman’s mediators, mainly due to technical and logistical considerations, according to Xinhua news agency. However, Araghchi emphasized that the location was not particularly significant for Iran. “What matters to us are the contents of the negotiations and the mediator,” he remarked.
This new round of discussions aims to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and to discuss lifting the US-led sanctions that have been impacting Iran significantly. Before the talks in Rome, another set of meetings is planned for Iran and the three European signatories of the 2015 nuclear accord — the UK, France, and Germany — happening on Friday.
Acknowledging that the influence of the E3 countries has diminished due to their alignment with US pressure tactics, he still expressed Iran’s desire to keep European parties involved in the negotiations. He stated that engaging with these countries is a priority for Tehran.
Addressing the complications posed by the US sanctions, Araghchi pointed out that these actions send negative signals during the discussions. He also commented on the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), indicating that it is not directly involved now but could become significant if an agreement materializes.
There was no set timeline established for concluding the talks; however, Araghchi asserted that Iran is not looking to engage in prolonged discussions. “We are not after wasting time,” he stated, maintaining that a timely resolution is preferable.
The first and third rounds of talks occurred in Oman in April, while the second round took place in Rome. The sequence of these discussions reflects a continuing effort to achieve a diplomatic solution regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions and related sanctions issues.
In summary, the upcoming fourth round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the US, facilitated by Oman, highlights both countries’ attempts to navigate the complexities of the nuclear deal. While the choice of Rome as the venue is primarily logistical, the core of the talks remains focused on meaningful dialogue and potential sanctions relief. The role of the E3 countries and the effects of ongoing US sanctions will also be critical in shaping the discussions moving forward.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
