The Trump administration, however, has insisted on including in the negotiations issues related to Iran’s missile program.

On Friday, Iran asked the United States to present realistic demands during the second round of nuclear negotiations, which will take place tomorrow in Rome.

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“Unrealistic demands will only reduce the possibility of reaching an agreement,” said Abbas Araqchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, during a press conference in Moscow after meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

The administration of President Donald Trump, however, has insisted on including in the negotiations issues related to Iran’s missile program, as well as its support for Yemen’s Houthis and Hezbollah.

“We do not change our position daily, and we expect the same seriousness and consistency from our counterparts,” Araqchi stated, apparently referring to remarks made by U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.

On Tuesday, the U.S. official spoke of “halting and eliminating” Iran’s uranium enrichment program, whereas previously he had only mentioned limiting the purity of the material.

“Iran will participate very seriously and with full willingness in the negotiations to find solutions regarding Iran’s peaceful nuclear program,” Araqchi emphasized, noting that the indirect nature of the talks is not something “complex or surprising” and will allow for agreements to be reached.

“At this time, we are only conducting indirect negotiations. It is evident that due to the threats from the U.S. government and the economic sanctions, as well as the maximum pressure policy against us, we cannot hold direct negotiations with them,” the Iranian diplomat explained.

On Thursday, U.S. President Trump once again threatened the Persian nation, stating that he has not ruled out the Israeli plan to destroy Iran’s nuclear facilities.

“I wouldn’t say I’ve ruled it out. I’m in no rush because I believe Iran has the opportunity to become a great country and live happily without death. And I’d like to see that. That’s my first option,” he said from the Oval Office at the White House, where Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was also present.

Nevertheless, Araqchi perceived “a certain level of seriousness from the other side and a desire to discuss exclusively nuclear issues” during the first round of negotiations held in Oman on April 12. “This could allow us to engage in constructive negotiations,” he added.

Meanwhile, Lavrov stated that Russia is willing to mediate in the nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States if both countries find it appropriate.

“Without a doubt, Russia is willing to contribute to this process and will support any agreement that responds to the legitimate interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he said, specifying that his country believes the only way to reach an agreement is to focus the discussions exclusively on nuclear issues.

“This is a fundamental point that must be considered by those who intend to introduce non-nuclear issues into the negotiations. That creates a very dangerous situation,” Lavrov noted.

“I would especially like to emphasize that the Islamic Republic of Iran is fully prepared to seek such an agreement within the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons,” he added.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: EFE

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