Russia says confident new nuclear talks with Iran will be held

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday that he was confident six world powers seeking a diplomatic solution to the longstanding dispute over Iran's nuclear program will hold new talks with Tehran, but that a venue had not yet been agreed.   

"The talks will take place, I am convinced of that. Now technical questions are being agreed, including on the site of the meeting," Lavrov said, referring to talks between Iran and six powers seeking to ensure it does not develop atomic weapons.   

It is worth noting that at a later time Iran suggested that the next round of nuclear talks with world powers should take place in Cairo, the ISNA news agency reported on Wednesday, citing the Islamic state's foreign minister.

Russia also urged North Korea to adhere to restrictions on its nuclear and missile programs, after the U.N. Security Council expanded existing sanctions against Pyongyang over a rocket launch last month.
   
"We hope our North Korean neighbours will heed the voice of the international community and return to the path of cooperation ... but for this it is necessary to stay within the bounds of the demands made in U.N. Security Council resolutions," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

Earlier on Wednesday, Lavrov said Russia wants constructive relations with the United States despite disputes over U.S. legislation designed to punish Russian human rights abusers and other difficulties in ties.         

Lavrov called the Magnitsky Act legislation "odious" but added: "We are interested in constructive dialogue and the development of stable, mutually beneficial cooperation, particularly in the area of investment, in trade and economic relations and in contacts between people."


REUTERS