President Khatami: Iran Will Continue Its Nuclear Programs - 2002-12-25. President Mohammad Khatami of Iran states that despite U.S. concerns, Tehran is determined to pursue nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Khatami mentions that with the help of Russia, Iran will complete the Bushehr nuclear power plant. The U.S. claims that Bushehr may be part of Iran's covert nuclear weapons program. In a clear attempt to alleviate U.S. concerns, Khatami states that Iran has no objection to sending nuclear waste from such power plants to Russia or other countries. It is through the reprocessing of these materials that the primary substance for building nuclear bombs is obtained. Khatami expressed this opinion on Tuesday, during the second day of his visit to Pakistan. The previous day, Iran and Pakistan also agreed to expand their cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, training, and communications. Kamal Kharrazi, Iran's foreign minister, who accompanied President Khatami to Pakistan, also discussed various issues with Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, Khurshid Mahmood Kasuri. These discussions were primarily focused on Afghanistan and the India-Pakistan conflict.
President Khatami: Iran Will Continue Its Nuclear Programs - 2002-12-25
President Khatami of Iran reaffirmed the country's commitment to its nuclear energy program despite U.S. concerns, indicating cooperation with Russia for the Bushehr plant. This statement comes during Khatami's visit to Pakistan, where Iran and Pakistan agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation. The situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional dynamics.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
President Khatami reaffirmed Iran's commitment to its nuclear energy program during a visit to Pakistan, emphasizing cooperation with Russia on the Bushehr nuclear power plant. He attempted to address U.S. concerns by stating Iran's willingness to send nuclear waste abroad.
- Iran is working with Russia to complete the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
- The U.S. suspects that Iran's nuclear program may have military applications.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has pursued nuclear technology for decades, claiming it is for peaceful purposes, but many nations suspect it could lead to weapon development. The Bushehr plant is a focal point in these discussions.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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