Iran's Reaction to the International Atomic Energy Agency Vote - 2003-09-10

The Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic states that Tehran may reconsider its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) if it is deprived of its right to have a peaceful nuclear program. Kamal Kharrazi expresses this opinion while the IAEA Board is preparing to vote on a new resolution in Vienna. This resolution, backed by the United States, gives the Islamic Republic until October 31 to fully disclose its nuclear activities. Tehran emphasizes that its nuclear program is only designed for electricity generation. However, a confidential IAEA report, which Western news agencies obtained a month ago, indicated that traces of highly enriched uranium that could be used to manufacture nuclear weapons were found at one of Iran's nuclear facilities. In response to the ongoing discussions, Ali Akbar Salehi, the representative of the Islamic Republic, addressed the IAEA Board members on Tuesday, stating that the language of threats is futile and undue pressures may lead to unexpected reactions. Mr. Salehi also told reporters that Iran will not accept any deadlines and will not disclose its sources for importing nuclear materials, but will continue to engage in dialogue. He stated: the cooperation process has not stopped; it continues, and we hope others will not halt this process.