Deputy FM Hopeful about Solution of Iran’s N. Issue

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Mehdi Mostafavi expressed the hope that the nuclear standoff between his country and the West would be ended during the current visit to Tehran by a delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a ceremony here on Wednesday to mark the issuance of biometric passports by the foreign ministry, Mostafavi hoped that the visit would clear up the peaceful and legal nature of Iran’s nuclear activities to the IAEA.

Asked to comment on the recent statements by the IAEA Director General Mohammad ElBaradei that Iran has reduced the pace of enrichment activities in Natanz facility, he said Tehran has already announced its stances on its activities.

“Iran’s (nuclear) activities are continued as before,” the diplomat said, adding, “These activities are under inspection and supervision and there has been no change or new development.”

Also in response to the question if Iran would attend the second round of talks with the US over Iraq, Mostafavi said that Tehran has not yet made its final decision in this regard, adding, “We are waiting for certain measures which should be taken by the Americans.”