Iran says world opinion swinging its way over nuclear program
Category: Iran, Iran WatchSource: Breitbart.com
BEIJING, Jan. 18 (AP) - (Kyodo)—Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator said here Friday he is confident efforts to impose further U.N. sanctions against his country over its nuclear program will fail because world opinion is swinging toward his nation. Saeed Jalili said a recent U.S. intelligence report saying Iran scrapped attempts to develop nuclear weapons in 2003 has undermined support for more sanctions.
“The Americans’ own report has already explained clearly that the purpose of Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful. Isn’t that enough proof?” he told reporters in Beijing.
Jalili also indicated that after talks with senior Chinese leaders on Thursday and Friday he is confident China will oppose further U.N. sanctions against Iran.
As a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, China has the power to veto resolutions.
“China is a friendly country which totally recognizes and understands our position,” he said.
A senior U.S. official, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, is also in China this week for talks on various issues and on Thursday he urged Beijing to support tougher measures against Iran at the world body.
China has indicated it is unlikely to agree, with several officials repeating its position this week that further dialogue and talks are the best way to resolve the issue.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said at a regular press briefing Thursday, “We hope that Iran will be able to abide by the relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions and continue to show flexibility and fully cooperate with the international community.”
“We also hope that the international community will intensify diplomatic efforts to break the stalemate,” she added.
The United States and its allies say more pressure should be put on Iran to halt its uranium enrichment program, which they argue could provide fuel for nuclear weapons.
Teheran says it merely forms part of its efforts to develop nuclear energy and poses no threat to other countries.
Source: Breitbart.com
