Iran’s AEOI boss optimistic about nuclear solution

Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi has expressed optimism about a solution being found to the nuclear issue.

Salehi made the remarks while speaking to reporters in the Austrian capital of Vienna on Monday on the sidelines of the 57th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference.

Pointing to President Hassan Rouhani’s remarks about Tehran’s determination to pursue a “win-win” approach to solve Iran’s nuclear issue, Salehi said he was optimistic about the settlement of the issue.

He called on the other side in the nuclear talks with Tehran to use this opportunity and prove their goodwill to help settle the issue.

In his first press conference since he officially took office in August, Rouhani said, “We are prepared to enter serious and meaningful negotiations with determination and without wasting time, and if our opposing party is equally ready, I am confident that the concerns of both sides will be allayed through dialogue.”

Salehi went on to express Tehran’s readiness to increase and strengthen interaction with the IAEA.

The United States, Israel and some of their allies have repeatedly accused Iran of pursuing non-civilian objectives in its nuclear energy program.

Iran has categorically rejected the allegation, stressing that as a committed member of the International Atomic Energy Agency and a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it is entitled to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

The latest round of Iran nuclear talks was wrapped up in April in the Kazakh city of Almaty. An earlier meeting had been held in Almaty in February.

The IAEA General Conference, which started on Monday and will last until September 20 is considered as the most significant event in the Agency’s annual calendar of meetings.

The meeting is convened to discuss the organization’s programs, activities and its budget for the coming year as well as the development of nuclear science and safety.