Schroeder urges Iran not to block nuclear talks

Xinhua: German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder has urged Iranian leaders not to block the talks mediated by European countries in a
bid to curb Teheran’s nuclear program.
“It is the hope of the world this year… that a comprehensive and lasting accord can be reached,” said Schroeder, noting that progress had been made at talks led by Britain, France and Germany,the so-called “Big Three” in the European Union (EU), since last year.
Xinhua

BERLIN – German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder has urged Iranian leaders not to block the talks mediated by European countries in a bid to curb Teheran’s nuclear program.

“It is the hope of the world this year… that a comprehensive and lasting accord can be reached,” said Schroeder, noting that progress had been made at talks led by Britain, France and Germany,the so-called “Big Three” in the European Union (EU), since last year.

“These hopes must not be disappointed — I also say this to those who are responsible in Iran,” said Schroeder.

Germany and its European neighbors are trying to get assurance from Iran of not producing nuclear weapons in exchange for trade and a legitimate right for peaceful nuclear projects.

While respecting US decision on not taking part in the European-brokered talks, the Germany leader reiterates his country’s position of not sending troops to Iraq ahead of his upcoming meeting with President George W. Bush on Feb. 23 in Mainz, western Germany.

But he did not rule out the possibility of enhancing the police training program for Iraq.