Rome - Saba:
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the fifth round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States as one of the most professional rounds of negotiations, adding, "We can say that the file of indirect negotiations is still open, and the talks will continue."
According to Iran’s IRNA news agency, Araghchi said at the conclusion of the fifth round of indirect talks between Iran and the U.S. on Friday that a "better and clearer understanding" of each side’s positions had been reached, and that both parties would convey the proposed ideas to their respective capitals for further review.
He added, "This round was one of the most professional negotiations we have ever held, and we once again reaffirmed the positions and principles of the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding the talks." He stated, "Our positions are completely clear, and we adhere to them."
The Foreign Minister emphasized that the American side now has a better and clearer understanding of Iran’s positions, noting that during this round, the Omani Foreign Minister had attempted to propose solutions to remove existing obstacles and make progress.
Araghchi said, "Our plan is to study these new solutions and proposals, which could pave the way forward while preserving the principles and positions of the Islamic Republic of Iran."
Both sides are expected to present their views on these proposals and solutions before organizing and conducting the next round of negotiations.
Referring to the ongoing talks, the Foreign Minister said, "The negotiations are so complex that they cannot be resolved in two or three meetings, but the fact that we are now on a reasonable track is progress in itself."
Araghchi expressed hope that in future meetings, given the improved understanding of Iran’s positions, solutions could be reached that would advance the negotiations.
He said, "We have not reached that stage yet, but we are not discouraged either."
He added, "Today, especially considering the discussions held and the solutions proposed by Oman to remove obstacles, there is potential for progress."
Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his accompanying diplomatic delegation arrived in Rome, Italy, to hold the fifth round of indirect talks with the United States.
So far, Araghchi has held four rounds of talks (three in Muscat and one in Rome) with Stephen Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy for Iran under former President Donald Trump, indirectly and through the mediation of the Omani Foreign Minister.
The delegation accompanying the Foreign Minister included Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh, and a number of diplomats and legal experts.
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