Araghchi: we are ready for a peaceful solution to Iran's nuclear issue

Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, announced on Friday during a joint press conference with Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, that a wide range of topics were discussed with his Russian counterpart. The head of Iran's diplomacy noted that issues such as developments in Syria, the Caucasus, the Caspian Sea, and Afghanistan were among the key points of discussion.

Araghchi highlighted that Iran-Russia relations have never reached such a level, stating, "The talks with Putin were productive and showed that our relations with Russia are on the right track. Moreover, the partnership agreement with Russia will further strengthen our ties in the future."

Regarding the message from the Supreme Leader to the Russian President, Araghchi said, "I conveyed the Supreme Leader's message, which covers various aspects of bilateral relations and refers to regional issues. The discussions with President Putin were constructive, indicating that our relations are progressing well."

On the Iran-Russia agreement, Araghchi noted, "This treaty demonstrates that we are on a positive path for long-term cooperation. Developments along this path will not affect our relations, as the decision to continue ties is a strategic one. We are pleased that the treaty has been approved by the Russian government and is on the agenda of Iran's Parliament, soon to be ratified and implemented."

Referring to the close interactions between Iran and Russia in international organizations with shared interests, Araghchi said, "We consider Russia's presidency of BRICS a successful period." He also announced an invitation from Iran's President, Masoud Pezeshkian, to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a bilateral visit to Iran, expressing hope that the visit will take place within the current calendar year and that the date will be finalized soon.

Commenting on regional developments, Araghchi stated, "The UN Security Council must fulfill its responsibilities regarding Palestine. We regret that the genocide in Gaza is occurring amid the silence of Western countries." He further emphasized, "Iran condemns U.S. attacks on Yemen."

Regarding the second round of indirect Iran-U.S. talks mediated by Oman, Araghchi said, "We had extensive discussions about Iran's nuclear issue and the indirect talks with the U.S. I provided detailed explanations to the Russian Foreign Minister." Expressing satisfaction with Russia's role in the JCPOA, he added, "Our Russian friends played a significant role in the JCPOA, and we hope they will continue their positive role in any new agreement. Lavrov assured me that Russia will maintain this role. I am confident that the constructive views of our Russian friends will aid the continuation of the talks. We will keep our friends in Russia and China regularly updated on developments, and their constructive input will help this process."

Araghchi expressed serious doubts about the intentions of the U.S. side, stating, "We will participate in tomorrow's talks with full seriousness. We are fully prepared for a peaceful solution to Iran's peaceful nuclear program. If the other side shows similar willingness and avoids illogical and unrealistic demands, I believe reaching an agreement is feasible." He added, "The positions expressed at the negotiating table will be evaluated. We are waiting to hear the U.S. stance tomorrow."

The Foreign Minister clarified, "Due to threats and the U.S. policy of maximum pressure, we will only engage in indirect talks at this stage and cannot enter direct negotiations. The path of diplomacy remains open; indirect talks are not unusual and can lead to an agreement."

He noted that if the U.S. is prepared to engage seriously in negotiations solely on the nuclear issue without delving into other matters, it could lead to constructive talks. Araghchi added, "In the first round, we observed a degree of seriousness from the other side. As I mentioned, if impractical demands are avoided, an agreement is possible."

Lavrov, in the same press conference, emphasized the importance of developing the railway and the North-South Corridor for enhancing trade relations between Iran and regional countries.

He also highlighted the need for swift implementation of trade agreements and the expansion of bilateral ties, with discussions on facilitating economic relations. Lavrov noted that both sides stressed the importance of respecting countries' rights and UN laws, opposing illegal sanctions and unilateral actions. Cooperation within international organizations like Shanghai and BRICS, as well as Iran's nuclear program, were also discussed. Additionally, the situation in Palestine and Syria was addressed, with an emphasis on the proper implementation of existing agreements.

The Russian Foreign Minister concluded, "Russia-Iran relations have reached an advanced stage. These relations remain strong despite challenging regional conditions and continue to develop."