Brussels, 22/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - While the recent discussions in Istanbul on the Iranian nuclear programme were “important” as it was a “test of their willingness to engage”, the discussions in Baghdad on 23 May “should focus on concrete substance. The ball is in their court. It is them that must make the first step”, said a European diplomat on Monday 21 May. “If there is a 'serious outcome' in Baghdad, there will be a follow up - at all relevant levels”, he made clear. He stated that “sanctions are not an end in themselves. But Iran has to comply with its obligations. The ball is in their court.” The diplomat said that “cooperation with the IAEA, just like access to the Parchin military complex, is important but not sufficient. The 20 % enrichment has to be addressed as a priority”, he said, indicating that the possible areas for cooperation with Iran include nuclear safety assistance, Tehran Research Reactor fuel, and willingness to discuss non nuclear, like counter-narcotics.
The diplomat said, too, that the E3+3 is “certainly very well prepared”, adding that there has been a great deal of unity among the E3+3 (France, Germany, United Kingdom, China, Russia and United States).
O 22 May, the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) said that it had reached agreement with Iran on a “structured approach”, seeking to remove the uncertainty surrounding the Iranian nuclear programme. (CG/transl.rt)