Iran says ready for serious atomic talks

TEHRAN (Reuters) – Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Ali
Larijani said on Tuesday Iran was ready to start what he called
“serious” talks with the six world powers about their offer to
defuse a nuclear standoff with the West from August 23.

Larijani was quoted by Iran’s student news agency ISNA as
saying Tehran was ready for talks during a meeting with envoys
of the six nations to hand over Iran’s reply to the offer.

“Although there is no justification for the other parties’
illegal move to refer Iran’s case to the Security Council …
the answer was prepared … to pave the way for fair talks,” he
said. “Iran is prepared to hold serious talks from August 23.”

He said Iran was ready to play a “constructive” role
regarding all issues in the package.

“The representatives of the six world powers should return
to talks to reach an understanding about all the issues
mentioned in the offer, including nuclear issues, long-term
technical and economic cooperations as well as security
cooperation in the region,” Larijani said.

One European diplomat said: “The answer was handed over. It
is a comprehensive answer. The Iranian side said they would
welcome a continuation of negotiations.”

Other diplomats would not immediately comment on the
contents of the reply.

“They (Iranians) have handed over the response and we have
sent it back to capitals,” another Western diplomat said.