Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has issued a stark warning against efforts to complicate US-Iran nuclear negotiations by introducing unrelated issues, calling such manoeuvres “dangerous” and counterproductive.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on April 18 cautioned against attempts to “burden” the ongoing US-Iran nuclear talks with matters that fall outside the scope of nuclear non-proliferation, describing such actions as hazardous and destabilising, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.
Speaking at a press conference in Moscow following discussions with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Lavrov stressed that the negotiations should remain strictly focused on nuclear-related issues.
“We proceed from the premise that the only viable agreement — as Mr Araghchi has just confirmed — is one that deals exclusively with nuclear matters,” Lavrov said. “I must particularly underscore that the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to seek a resolution within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. This is a fundamental point which must be taken into account by those who are trying to overload the talks with unrelated issues, thereby creating a very risky situation.”
Notably, Iran and the United States are set to hold a second round of indirect nuclear talks in Rome on April 19, with Oman continuing its role as mediator. The renewed discussions follow a reportedly constructive first round held in Muscat on April 12.
Talks will remain indirect, reflecting the absence of formal diplomatic ties between the two countries. Mediators will shuttle between delegations as they attempt to narrow gaps on Iran’s uranium enrichment programme and potential sanctions relief.
Iran insists its nuclear activities are entirely civilian, while the U.S. remains focused on preventing weapons development. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has suggested a deal is possible if Washington adopts a realistic stance.
Meanwhile, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, visited Tehran earlier this week to discuss nuclear oversight, a move seen as laying the groundwork for progress in Rome.
While expectations remain cautious, the outcome of Saturday’s talks could prove pivotal for regional stability and future diplomatic engagement.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
Source: caliber.az
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