Iran resolved to achieve final nuclear deal: Zarif

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has reaffirmed Tehran’s determination to reach a final agreement with the six world powers over its nuclear energy program provided that the Iranian nation’s rights are recognized.

“Iran is determined to reach an agreement. We have shown good faith. We have shown political will and as far as verification of our side of the bargain is concerned, we have done our side,” Zarif said at a Sunday press conference with European Union’s foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton, in Tehran.

“It is up to the other side, first, to fulfill its commitments under the Geneva agreement with regard to the first steps, and also come to the negotiating table with a desire, decision and commitment to reach a mutually acceptable agreement,” Zarif said.

Iran and the six world powers – the United States, China, Russia, France, Britain and Germany – clinched an interim nuclear deal in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 24, 2013. The deal took effect on January 20.

“I believe if that is the case, we can do it even within the five months or four months that is left of the first phase and even shorter. But that requires a recognition that Iran will only accept a solution that is respectful, that respects the rights of the Iranian people,” he added.

Experts from Iran and the six other countries, who ended their latest round of talks on Friday in Vienna, are working to hammer out a comprehensive deal following the Geneva accord.

The next round of the high-level talks between Iran and the six countries is to be held in Vienna on March 17.

“Iran finds it in its own interest to make sure that there are no ambiguities about Iran’s intentions, because we have no intention to seek nuclear weapons,” Zarif pointed out.