Rafsanjani: Iran Not After N-arms

Tehran, June 26, IRNA -- Chairman of Expediency Council Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani said on Monday Iran is not after nuclear arms under any circumstances. He made the remarks in a meeting with Spanish Ambassador to Tehran Pedro Biena. Commenting on Iran-European Union ties, Rafsanjani said the European countries are increasing their suspicion over Iranian nuclear program while it is a big mistake. He expressed hope Spain as the EU member would take effective steps to remedy the mistakes and suspicions. Rafsanjani termed Iran as a peace-loving nation and said that nuclear weapons are no longer considered a deterrent means and its use brings devastating consequences and irreparable damages to nations and the generations to come. He said that any country as well as Iran is eligible to use peaceful nuclear energy. “It is your duty as an Ambassador to help remove suspicion and build mutual confidence." The Spanish Ambassador Biena described Iran-Spain ties as historical and friendly and said that settlement of the differences is the main strategy of his government. Pointing to Tehran-Madrid good relations during the last three decades, he said despite the emerging problems in Iran-EU ties, relations between Spain and Iran have developed in all fields of trade and culture./end