Tehran: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the United States must work to rebuild Tehran’s trust if it hopes to revive stalled diplomatic efforts over the country’s nuclear programme.
In a phone call with his Japanese counterpart, Motegi Toshimitsu, Araghchi outlined Iran’s stance on its “peaceful” nuclear activities and criticised recent actions taken by Washington and the European trio — Britain, France and Germany.
Araghchi began the conversation by congratulating Motegi on his reappointment as Japan’s foreign minister, expressing hope that the two countries would continue what he described as a record of “constructive” cooperation.
Iran, he reiterated, will not negotiate over its ballistic missile programme, describing the country’s defense capabilities as non-negotiable.
The minister sharply criticised the European powers’ decision on 28 August to initiate the so-called “snapback” mechanism that would restore UN sanctions on Iran, calling the step damaging to diplomatic efforts.
Araghchi said he still hoped for strong cooperation with Japan, which has maintained dialogue with both Tehran and Washington.
Motegi urged Iran to resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and reiterated Tokyo’s commitment to stability in the Middle East. Japan, he said, supported renewed talks between the US and Iran.
Araghchi had previously agreed with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi on measures to rebuild cooperation following Iran’s parliamentary order to halt collaboration after what Tehran describes as Israeli-US attacks on three nuclear facilities. However, Iran declared that agreement void after the IAEA Board of Governors passed a resolution critical of Tehran on 20 November.
The two ministers also reviewed bilateral ties and consular issues, agreeing on the need for regular consultations to strengthen relations between Iran and Japan.
