Araghchi: Grossi’s Deputy to Arrive in Tehran Tomorrow – No Inspection Plans Until Framework is Agreed
Tehran - BORNA - speaking to reporters on the sidelines of today’s cabinet meeting, Araghchi said: “Talks with the IAEA will be held tomorrow to determine the framework for cooperation. Grossi’s deputy will arrive in Tehran, and there are no plans for site visits until such a framework is reached. Cooperation will begin only after this framework is established, which will be based on the law passed by the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament).”
He continued: “Our contacts with the Europeans are ongoing. They have raised the snapback mechanism, but our position is that snapback has no validity. From our perspective, Europe is not considered a participant in the JCPOA. Of course, there are technical and legal discussions underway, and my colleagues remain in contact with the Europeans, but no date has been set for the next round of talks.”
On the possibility of talks with the United States, Araghchi stated: “Nothing has yet been finalized regarding negotiations with the U.S.”
Addressing recent developments in Gaza, the foreign minister said: “The Foreign Ministry has issued a statement on this matter. We condemn any occupation of Gaza and the displacement of its people. Yesterday, several Islamic countries issued a joint statement, and the positions taken by Islamic countries in the region have been very constructive.”
On peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Araghchi noted: “Tomorrow, the Armenian foreign minister will have a phone call with me, and Prime Minister Pashinyan will also call. On Tuesday, Armenia’s deputy foreign minister will visit Tehran. Our position on Zangezur is completely clear. We welcome any peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan and have previously expressed readiness to play a role in achieving it. We support the full sovereignty of every country over its own territory, defend the territorial integrity of all regional states and their international borders, and reject any border changes. In the joint statement by Azerbaijan and Armenia, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is reaffirmed, and opposition to any border changes is stated, which is consistent with our position.”
Araghchi added: “The corridor issue has been set aside, and the discussion now concerns a transit road under Armenian sovereignty and jurisdiction, within Armenian territory, to be built by an American-Armenian company registered in Armenia. We have made it clear that any form of foreign presence in the region could have negative consequences for regional peace. We have conveyed this position to both countries and are closely monitoring developments. So far, our principled positions have been respected. However, the possible involvement of an American company is a cause for concern, and we will continue consultations on this matter.”
End Article