EU Foreign Policy Chief Hopes For Progress On Iran

Javier Solana (file photo) (AFP) 21 November 2005 -- The EU's foreign policy chief says he still hopes for progress in negotiations on Iran's nuclear program ahead of key UN talks this week despite an Iranian threat to block atomic inspections.

Javier Solana's comments came ahead of a meeting with European Union foreign ministers in Brussels today and talks on Iran later this week in Vienna at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).


The IAEA is set to consider whether to refer Iran to the Security Council for possible sanctions over its nuclear program.


On 20 November, Iran's parliament approved a bill requiring the government to block IAEA inspections if Tehran is referred to the council.


Iran's Foreign Ministry also said Tehran will not allow the IAEA to visit a military site in Tehran unless it provides "concrete proof" to justify an inspection. That site was razed just before IAEA inspectors paid an initial visit in 2004.


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Iran's Nuclear Program

Iran's Nuclear Program


THE COMPLETE PICTURE: RFE/RL's complete coverage of controversy surrounding Iran's nuclear program.


CHRONOLOGY

An annotated timeline of Iran's nuclear program.