First Day Of Talks Held On Long-Term Iranian Nuclear Accord

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi at the nuclear talks between world powers and Iran in Vienna on February 18

Iran and six world powers have held a first day of negotiations on a long-term agreement aimed at resolving concerns over the Islamic republic’s nuclear program.

Officials said the parties met together in Vienna on February 18 before breaking into bilateral meetings, including one between the Iranian and U.S. delegations.

All sides have sought to lower expectations, citing the likelihood of difficult negotiations.

Iranian officials were quoted as saying Iran will not negotiate the shuttering of its nuclear facilities nor abandon its right to uranium enrichment.

Western powers are seeking to curtail Iran’s nuclear activity to ensure that Tehran is not developing a nuclear weapon.

The parties are seeking to build on the interim deal reached November 24 under which Tehran curbed some nuclear work in exchange for limited international sanctions relief.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AP