FM: Iran’s Response Proportionate to West Decision

Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said Iran will respond “in equal measure” if the UN Security Council issues a second sanctions resolution against the country. Speaking to reporters during a brief official visit to the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, Mottaki said new sanctions “will create more difficult circumstances for everybody.”

“They (members of the UN Security Council) will receive the same response (from us). If they move to a solution in a diplomatic way, we are ready. If not, equal measures will be taken (by Iran),” Mottaki stressed.

He added that Tehran has not lost its hope to resume the talks to resolve its nuclear issue.

Mottaki made the remarks as the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany are due to brief the council on their deliberations to date.

Slovenia will assume the European Union presidency at the beginning of 2008.