Iranian Diplomat Says The Nuclear Stand-Off Must Be Solved Peacefull

IRANIAN DIPLOMAT SAYS THE NUCLEAR STAND-OFF MUST BE SOLVED PEACEFULLY

Armenpress
Jun 13 2006

YEREVAN, JUNE 13, ARMENPRESS: An Iranian diplomat told today in
Yerevan that the controversy over Iran’s nuclear energy program must
be solved only peacefully and through negotiations. Ali Akbar Jokar,
deputy ambassador of Iran in Armenia, said to a round table discussion
on the nuclear weapons that any attempt to resolve the stand-off by
military force would have dramatic repercussions for the entire world.

“Iran is situated in a geopolitical region that makes a key part
of the world security. Iran’s security is of global importance,”
he said. Ali Akbar Jokar said even a slightest negative development
around Iran would result in the collapse of the world economy, while
military actions or strained relations would affect all parties. The
diplomat expressed hope that the nuclear program controversy would
be resolved peacefully.

“There are no grounds that would justify military actions against
Iran,” he said pointing out the visible change in the tone of US
administration when it speaks about Iran. He said Iran has always
cooperated with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its
nuclear facilities have always been accessible to IAEA experts.

“The European Union has offered a package of incentives concerning
Iran’s nuclear program and USA agreed to conduct talks for resolution
of the controversy,” he said, adding that whatever the incentives they
have to respect Iran’s right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. In
response to a question whether the Iraq scenario could be applied in
Iran he said Iraq was a different case. “Iraq was ruled by a despotic
leader who had no links with the people, while authorities in Iran
enjoy the population’s full support,” he said.