Iran To Resolve Issue Of IAEA Inspections

Tehran, 15 March 2004 (RFE/RL) -- Iran's chief nuclear negotiator today said Iran will reach an agreement with the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on resuming stalled inspections.
Hassan Rohani said the suspension of nuclear inspections is a "technical matter," and will be resolved in negotiations with the UN's nuclear watchdog.

Iran postponed a planned visit by IAEA inspectors, planned for 13 March, after the agency strongly criticized Iran for failing to disclose sensitive information about its nuclear program.

Yesterday, IAEA Director-General Muhammad el-Baradei said the best way for Iran to answer suspicions that it may be hiding a nuclear weapons program is to allow the return of UN inspectors as early as possible.

El-Baradei made the comment as he arrived in Washington, where he is expected to meet with President George W. Bush this week.