Iran Special: Statement By EU's Catherine Ashton After E3+3 Talks

The E3+3 (sometimes known as the 5+1 Powers) talks with Iran about its nuclear program have ended in Baghdad. The parties have agreed to meet in Moscow on 18-19 June to continue the discussions.

See also The Latest from Iran (24 May): Day 2 of the Nuclear Talks in Baghdad

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STATEMENT BY CATHERINE ASHTON, HIGH REPRESENTATIVE
FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND SECURITY POLICY AND VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE COMMISSION IN BAGHDAD ON 25th MAY 2012

First of all, I would like to thank the Iraqi government, and in
particular Foreign Minister Zebari, for the excellent hospitality and
organisation of these talks.

The E3+3 remain firm, clear and united in seeking a swift diplomatic
resolution of the international community's concerns on the exclusively
peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme, based on the NPT, and the
full implementation of UN Security Council and IAEA Board of Governors
Resolutions.  We expect Iran to take concrete and practical steps to
urgently meet the concerns of the international community, to build
confidence and to meet its international obligations.

We have met with our Iranian counterparts over the last two days in very
intense and detailed discussions.

In line with our agreement in Istanbul, the E3+3 laid out clear proposals
to address the Iranian nuclear issue and, in particular, all aspects of
20% enrichment.

We also put ideas on the table on reciprocal steps we would be prepared to
take.

Iran declared its readinness to address the issue of 20 percent enrichment
and came with its own five-point plan, including their assertion that we
recognise their right to enrichment.

Having held in-depth discussions with our Iranian counterparts over two
days - both in full plenary sessions and bilaterals -it is clear that we
both want to make progress, and that there is some common ground. However,
significant differences remain. Nonetheless, we do agree on the need for
further discussion to expand that common ground.

We will go back to our respective capitals and consult. We will maintain
intensive contacts with our Iranian counterparts to prepare a further
meeting in Moscow with arrival on 17 June with talks on 18th an 19th June

As we have already agreed, the talks will be based on a step-by-step
approach and reciprocity.

We remain determined to resolve this problem in the near term through
negotiations, and will continue to make every effort to that end.