No Plan to Change Format of Iran-US Talks: Spokesman

In comments at his weekly press conference on Tuesday, Esmaeil Baqaei addressed speculation about possible changes in the structure of the Iran-US nuclear talks, whose most recent round was held in Muscat on February 6.

He said there is, for now, no plan to alter the format or arrangement of the negotiations, adding that future talks would also be held in the same manner, provided that an understanding is reached on the date and time of the next round.

Commenting on the possibility of changes in Iran’s negotiating team, Baqaei said that depending on the course of the talks, Iran would add new members or experts to the delegation whenever necessary. He noted that Tehran could draw on the capabilities, experience, and expert knowledge of various individuals.

Regarding Iran’s proposals in the negotiations, the spokesperson said it is natural that detailed discussions could not be expected in an initial meeting. He explained that the half-day Muscat meeting, from Iran’s perspective, was intended to assess the seriousness of the other side and how the path ahead might proceed, and that the discussions at that meeting mainly focused on general issues.

Baqaei said Iran’s principled positions were clear, emphasizing that Tehran’s demand was the realization of Iran’s interests based on the Non-Proliferation Treaty and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. He added that further details would depend on how the process unfolds in the future./tasnim