AFP: Iran’s top nuclear negotiator said Tuesday the draft resolution against Tehran being discussed at the UN Security Council would have no effect on its atomic programme, state television reported. TEHRAN, Dec 12, 2006 (AFP) – Iran’s top nuclear negotiator said Tuesday the draft resolution against Tehran being discussed at the UN Security Council would have no effect on its atomic programme, state television reported.
“The adoption of a resolution cannot stop the nuclear activities of Iran,” said Ali Larijani, according to the state broadcaster’s website.
“Soon the research activities will be complete. The sanctions foreseen by the resolution will have no effect on our programme,” he added in Iran’s first reaction since Russia, in a crucial move, welcomed changes to the draft.
Larijani also repeated a warning that Iran could reconsider its cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog if sanctions were imposed, but he did not specify further.
“We do not want to quit the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), but if the acts continue against Iran we will very certainly consider our relationship with the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
The five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany finally appear to be nearing agreement on a resolution, with Russia voicing optimism that a deal could be agreed before the end of the year.
Iran vehemently denies US charges it is seeking nuclear weapons.
