“The Islamic Republic of Iran has proven that it does not succumb to pressure,” said Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Zarif said it would be “very easy” to reach agreement over Tehran’s nuclear energy program, but stressed that “mutual trust” is a prerequisite to reaching an understanding.
Referring to a fatwa by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei banning the use and possession of nuclear weapons, Zarif said, “Nuclear weapons have no place in Iran’s defensive doctrine.”
The Iranian foreign minister has expressed optimism that the Geneva deal will lead to a comprehensive solution to the West’s standoff with Iran over the country’s nuclear energy program.
Zarif said that the expert-level talks held in December with the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States -- plus Germany yielded positive results.
Iran’s top nuclear negotiator said the talks will move forward with "seriousness and strong political will," adding that a comprehensive solution can be reached if all sides are committed to the landmark deal.
