Araghchi: Third Round of Iran–U.S. Talks Achieved Good Progress
Iran’s foreign minister says indirect talks with the United States entered substantive elements on nuclear issues and sanctions, with technical meetings set to begin in Vienna.
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has described the third round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States as one of the most serious phases of negotiations so far, saying the process achieved good progress.
Speaking in Geneva, Araghchi said the latest round stood out for both its length and intensity, reflecting a shift toward more substantive engagement compared to earlier discussions.
He stressed that while the talks remain indirect, the level of seriousness demonstrated by both sides indicates a stronger effort to move toward a workable outcome.
Entry Into Core Elements of a Potential Agreement
Araghchi said that messages between the Iranian and U.S. delegations were conveyed through Oman’s foreign minister, Badr Albusaidi, and Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
He noted that Grossi’s presence during this phase was particularly useful for addressing technical aspects of the negotiations.
The foreign minister said the latest round moved beyond general discussions and entered into the core elements of a potential agreement.
He explained that negotiations addressed both the nuclear file and the issue of sanctions relief, marking a more substantive phase in the process.
Araghchi acknowledged that differences of opinion persist on some issues, describing such disagreements as natural given the complexity and sensitivity of the matters under discussion.
Technical Meetings to Begin in Vienna
Araghchi said it was agreed that technical teams would begin detailed discussions starting Monday in Vienna at the Agency.
He explained that these meetings would focus on clarifying technical dimensions and working with Agency experts to reach a framework consistent with the Agency’s requirements.
According to him, the launch of technical-level talks reflects the seriousness of both sides and is intended to prepare the ground for informed political decision-making.
Sanctions Relief a Central Focus
Addressing sanctions, Araghchi said Iran clearly outlined its demands regarding the lifting of unilateral U.S. sanctions, which affect multiple sectors.
He noted that Iran also clearly presented its positions on issues related to the UN Security Council and existing areas of disagreement.
Araghchi said both sides agreed to engage more deeply and in greater detail on these sanctions-related issues in the coming week.
Next Political Round Expected Within a Week
The foreign minister said negotiations at the political level are expected to resume in less than a week.
He added that during this period, both sides have preparatory work to complete, including the drafting of documents and follow-up on technical discussions.
Araghchi reiterated that the third round was the longest and most serious to date, and said the upcoming phase would build on the progress achieved so far. (PW)