The next round of international talks over Iran’s nuclear programme has been scheduled for June 16-20 in Vienna, a spokesman for EU foreign policy Chief Catherine Ashton said on Tuesday, following informal talks in Istanbul with her Iranian counterpart.
“(Ms. Ashton) held very long and useful discussions with Foreign Minister Mr. (Javad) Zarif in order to inform the negotiations on the Iranian nuclear programme,” Michael Mann said of Monday’s meeting.
“They explored different possibilities as part of an ongoing process,” the spokesman added.
The talks between Tehran and Ms. Ashton - who is negotiating on behalf of Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States and Germany - are aimed at placing strict limitations on Iran’s nuclear programme, in return for ending sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
The six powers are concerned that Iran could use enriched uranium or plutonium to make nuclear weapons. Iranian leaders insist they are only interested in nuclear energy and scientific applications.
Ms. Ashton and Mr. Zarif both recommended that a meeting of experts should also take place soon, according to Mr. Mann.
Both sides are hoping to sign a deal in late July.
