Iran - nuclear

Tehran in positive mood ahead of nuclear talks

Article published on the 2009-09-30 Latest update 2009-09-30 09:10 TU

Iran's chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili speaks with journalists
(Photo: Reuters)

Tehran is heading into Thursday’s negotiations with major world powers in Geneva over Iran’s nuclear programme in bullish mood. The country’s top negotiator said he was “positive” about talks while the country’s Foreign Minister said Iran would not give up its “right” to develop nuclear technology.

"We are going to Europe for this negotiation with a positive approach and I hope this is an opportunity for others also," Saeed Jalili told reporters at Tehran airport.

Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki was equally ebullient in talks with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

“Iran, in defending its absolute right to develop civilian nuclear technology will never bow under political pressure. Iran will never renounce its right to develop civilian nuclear technology," he said, according to Irna news agency.

Concerns were raised last week by disclosures by Iran to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of a previously undisclosed second uranium enrichment plant.

With concerns that the uranium enrichment programme could help Iran to develop nuclear weapons, Washington has called on Tehran to agree to "immediate, unfettered access" by IAEA inspectors.

Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States will all take part in Thursday’s talks.