Iran described initial nuclear talks with the U.S. as constructive but limited strictly to nuclear issues, signalling Tehran’s openness to dialogue while rejecting expansion of the talks into reducing Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, as demanded by Israel.
Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, told Omani TV yesterday, before flying to Doha, that the negotiations between Iran and the U.S. could be extended to other areas if they prove successful, though he cautioned that it is too early to draw definitive conclusions about the future course of relations, reported Tasnim. He said that in previous rounds, negotiations had progressed to certain stages, but that it had been the U.S. that altered the course of the talks. Iran had repeatedly stated that it was ready to enter negotiations if they were conducted in a realistic manner.
Larijani stated that the current framework of the discussions is specifically focused on the nuclear issue, adding that the American side has also concluded that negotiations should revolve around the nuclear matter. He cautioned against raising expectations too high, noting that, although multiple invitations had been put forward by the U.S. side, only one round of negotiations has been held so far.
If the talks succeed, they could be expanded and extended to other spheres, Larijani said, but he added that he could not state with certainty at this stage whether the process would lead to dialogue on other disputes with the U.S. or to a new definition of bilateral relations.
Addressing obstacles to building lasting trust, Larijani said the main issue is the American claim that Iran seeks nuclear weapons. He reiterated that Iran does not intend to pursue nuclear arms and said the U.S., in return, could take steps to resolve certain issues.
