Tehran - Saba:
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed that "direct negotiations with a party that constantly threatens to resort to force in violation of the UN Charter and has contradictory positions expressed by its various officials will be meaningless." He also emphasized the commitment to diplomacy and the willingness to try the path of indirect negotiations.
Iran's Mehr News Agency quoted Araghchi as saying during a Nowruz celebration ceremony, describing the developments of 2024 as a year full of events and challenges for Iran and the region. He said, "In principle, direct negotiations with a party that constantly threatens to resort to force in violation of the UN Charter and has contradictory positions expressed by its various officials will be meaningless. However, we are committed to diplomacy and are willing to try the path of indirect negotiations."
Araghchi pointed to the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program, saying, "Iran has previously adopted a set of voluntary measures within the framework of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to provide guarantees regarding the nature of its nuclear program, but the United States has not yet done so." The United States unilaterally withdrew from this agreement. Now, with this experience, we are ready to continue dialogue on our nuclear program and lift sanctions, based on the logic of building confidence in exchange for lifting oppressive sanctions against Iran.
Araghchi stated: "While Iran is committed to the path of diplomacy and dialogue to resolve misunderstandings and disputes, it remains prepared for all possible events. Just as it is serious about diplomacy and negotiation, it will also be decisive and serious in defending its interests and national sovereignty."
The Iranian Foreign Minister pointed to Iran's responsible and measured approach to international developments, saying: "Iran's response to the US President's message was in accordance with the content and tone of his message, while preserving the opportunity to use diplomacy."
Araghchi also highlighted the principles of Iran's foreign policy toward its neighbors and the rest of the world, expressing his hope that the new year will witness further expansion of relations in various political, economic, and cultural fields.
Araghchi emphasized Iran's determination to continue its principled and responsible policies in 2025.
He criticized the humanitarian disasters caused by the fires and crimes committed by the Zionist entity in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, as well as the illegal statements made by the United States against Yemen. He emphasized the need for solidarity and cooperation among countries to end the suffering of the oppressed Palestinian people and halt the Israeli aggression against Lebanon and Syria.
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