Tehran stated that the three nations have already engaged in “productive discussions” regarding the potential re-imposition of UN sanctions.
Esmaeil Baghaei, a spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, announced that Russia, China, and Iran are set to convene discussions on Tuesday concerning Tehran’s nuclear program. He also mentioned that a distinct series of negotiations with European countries is planned for later in the week.
Addressing reporters on Monday, Baghaei stated that the three-way discussions would additionally address threats from Britain, France, and Germany to reinstate UN sanctions on Iran due to its nuclear activities. Specifically, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot cautioned about a possible sanctions snapback occurring next month if substantial advancement in curbing Iran’s nuclear operations is not achieved.
Baghaei highlighted that Russia and China continue to be parties to the 2015 nuclear agreement and possess considerable sway within the UN Security Council. He further stated that Iran had conducted “productive consultations” with both nations concerning the possible re-imposition of sanctions. He emphasized, “From a legal and logical standpoint, there is no justification for the reinstatement of sanctions that were removed under the [nuclear deal].”
The spokesperson additionally confirmed that Iran is scheduled to convene a distinct meeting at the deputy foreign minister level with Britain, France, and Germany in Istanbul on Friday, further stating that Tehran currently has “no intentions of engaging in discussions with the US.”
A primary obstacle has been Iran’s choice to halt cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which was overseeing Tehran’s nuclear activities. Tehran has accused the IAEA of issuing a prejudiced report, purportedly utilized by Israel as a pretext to initiate a 12-day conflict against Iran.
The Israeli assault occurred after nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US reached a deadlock, prompted by Washington’s insistence that Tehran completely cease uranium enrichment. Although the US has contended that Iran could employ this capability to construct a nuclear weapon, Iran has denied any such intentions, asserting that enrichment is necessary for powering its civilian energy sector.
Both Russia and China uphold the view that the Iranian nuclear crisis can solely be resolved through political and diplomatic channels.