Message from Iran on negotiations with the US: 'Indirect talks will continue, the venue may change'

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei made statements regarding his country's foreign policy agenda at a press conference held in Tehran. Referring to the indirect US-Iran talks held in Oman on April 12, Baghaei stated that these contacts are focused on the nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions.

Baghaei expressed that the second round of talks, planned for April 19, could take place in Europe instead of Oman, noting that this possibility is on the table. While there was no direct confirmation regarding Axios' report naming Rome as the new negotiation site, the Iranian spokesperson said, "We will make our decision regarding the venue for negotiations with the US after receiving Oman's official views."

“MUSCAT’S MEDIATION WILL CONTINUE”

Baghaei emphasized that even if the venue changes, Oman's role as a mediator will continue, and he announced that the negotiations will proceed in an indirect format. Baghaei stated, "The venue of the negotiations is not important; what matters is their framework and format. We do not see direct talks as useful."

IAEA CHIEF COMING TO TEHRAN

Another development regarding Iran's nuclear program is that International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will visit Tehran this week. Baghaei said that Grossi will hold talks with Iranian officials.

When asked by a journalist whether Iran would reduce its uranium enrichment rate to the 3.67% level stipulated in the 2015 agreement in the event of a possible deal, Baghaei replied, "This is a technical matter. It will come to the agenda as the talks progress."

ARAGHCHI HEADED TO RUSSIA

Touching upon Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's upcoming visit to Russia during the press conference, Baghaei said, "In line with previously made plans, our Foreign Minister will visit Russia by the end of this week. Many topics, including the negotiation process in Muscat, will be discussed during these meetings."

Furthermore, stating that work on the "Comprehensive Strategic Agreement" between Iran and Russia is ongoing, Baghaei also announced that this agreement would soon be submitted to the Iranian Parliament for approval.

GREEN LIGHT FROM IRAN TO US INVESTORS

Responding to a question regarding the presence of American investors in Iran, Baghaei replied as follows:

"Iran has never been against foreign economic cooperation. We do not create obstacles for investments by US citizens either. The real problem is the complex and multi-layered laws of the US. These laws prevent American citizens from trading with Iran. This is entirely an issue that the US side needs to resolve."

News Source: 12punto