US-Iran Talks to Take Place in Geneva on Thursday

Oman’s Foreign Minister Confirms US-Iran Talks for Thursday in Geneva

A meeting between US and Iranian officials is scheduled to take place in Geneva on Thursday, according to Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi. The announcement was made on Sunday through a social media post.

Earlier on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran would implement a “full monitoring mechanism” to ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and ease tensions with the US.

When asked about Iran’s decision to pursue enrichment on its soil rather than purchasing enriched uranium from abroad, Araghchi cited issues of national pride and dignity. He mentioned that Iran has developed this technology independently and has incurred significant costs as a result of decades-long US sanctions.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran is committed to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and is willing to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). However, under the treaty, Tehran also has the right to engage in peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment.

The second round of nuclear talks concluded in Geneva on February 17. The US and Iran held indirect talks in Oman earlier this month. Iranian officials are working ahead of the meeting to present a draft that includes elements that can accommodate both sides’ concerns and interests.

Araghchi stated that he is optimistic about reaching a deal, which would likely be better than the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiated by former US President Barack Obama in 2015.

Source: Al Jazeera