Iran ready to resume 5+1 talks: Iranian FM

TEHRAN, Dec. 31 (MNA) – Iran`s Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said that Iran is ready to resume negotiations with the 5+1 group (the United States, Britain, France, Russia, China, and Germany). Salehi made the remarks during a meeting with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhai Jun in Tehran on Thursday. The Iranian foreign minister discussed Russia’s proposal for a “step-by-step” plan toward Iran’s nuclear program with the Chinese official. On July 13, Russia made a proposal for a step-by-step approach, according to which Iran could address questions about its nuclear program and be rewarded with a gradual easing of sanctions. The Chinese vice foreign minister emphasized that the dispute over Iran’s nuclear issue should be resolved through negotiations, adding that Beijing is opposed to the adoption of new sanctions on Tehran. Salehi and Zhai also exchanged views on bilateral issues and expressed hope that the level of relations would be increased. Zhai stated that his country is keen to increase relations with the Islamic Republic and called for more negotiations to be held between the two countries’ officials. On the issue of Afghanistan, Salehi said that security operations should be transferred to the Afghan government and foreign forces should leave the country as soon as possible. The foreign minister also stated that Iran will continue participating in the reconstruction process in the war-torn Afghanistan and will continue its cooperation to help promote peace and security there. The Chinese official also said foreign troops should disengage from the country and the Afghan people should be given the right to self-determination.