Araghchi: Iran–US Second-Round Talks Had a More Constructive Atmosphere
Iran’s foreign minister says indirect talks with the US in Geneva became more serious in the second round, with guiding principles agreed and a clearer path ahead.
Geneva | PUREWILAYAH.COM - Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the second round of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States in Geneva was conducted in a more constructive atmosphere compared to the previous round, with more serious discussions taking place and a clearer path now emerging.
Speaking on Tuesday, 28 Bahman (February 16), following the conclusion of the second round of indirect Iran–US talks held at the Omani Embassy in Geneva, Araghchi outlined the key outcomes of the meeting.
More Serious Discussions Than the First Round
“Today, we held the second round of indirect negotiations with the American delegation at the Omani Embassy in Geneva,” Araghchi said.
He explained that consultations had already begun the previous day, during which Rafael Grossi arrived in Geneva.
“Good and useful technical discussions were held with him, and he also met with the American delegation,” Araghchi added.
According to the foreign minister, the second round marked a clear shift in tone and substance.
“In this round, compared to the previous one, fully serious discussions were raised, and the atmosphere was more constructive,” he said.
Agreement on Guiding Principles
Araghchi noted that various ideas were presented and examined in depth by both sides.
“These ideas were seriously discussed, and ultimately we were able to reach a general understanding on a set of guiding principles,” he said.
He added that from this point forward, the negotiations will proceed based on those principles, with the aim of moving toward drafting the text of a possible agreement.
No Immediate Deal, but a Clearer Path
The foreign minister cautioned against expectations of a rapid agreement.
“This does not mean that we can reach an agreement quickly,” Araghchi said. “But at least the path has begun.”
He stressed that Iran is prepared to devote the necessary time to the process.
“We hope this work can move forward as soon as possible, and we are ready to allocate sufficient time,” he said, noting that drafting the text of an agreement would inevitably be more complex and detailed.
Progress But No Date Set for Third Round
Araghchi described the outcome of the second round as a tangible step forward.
“There has been good progress compared to the previous session,” he said. “We now have a clear path ahead, which I consider to be positive.”
Regarding the timing of a possible third round, Araghchi said no specific date had been determined.
“It was decided that both sides will work on draft texts for a potential agreement,” he explained. “These texts will then be exchanged, and after that, another date for the third round will be considered.”
Araghchi emphasized that while the situation has become clearer, challenges remain.
“This does not mean there is a formal roadmap,” he said. “But we now have a clearer picture of what needs to be done and what steps should follow.”
He added that both sides still hold positions that will require effort to bring closer together.
“Nevertheless,” Araghchi concluded, “we now have guiding principles and a clearer, more positive path along which to move forward.” (PW)