Tensions ease as Iran-US talks open

AFP | Tehran

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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi yesterday described the atmosphere of talks with the United States as positive, with the two sides agreeing to proceed with negotiations.

The talks took place following threats from Washington and after it recently deployed an aircraft carrier group to the Middle East following Iran's deadly response to anti-government protests. "In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged and the views of the other side were shared with us," Araghchi told Iranian state TV, adding that "it was a good start."

He noted the two sides had "agreed to proceed with the negotiations" and that the "way forward" would be decided after negotiators held consultations within their respective capitals.

The timing and the format of the next round will be decided "at a later date", Araghchi said, expressing hope that Washington would refrain from "threats and pressure" so that "the talks can continue".

The top diplomat insisted that the discussions were "focused exclusively on the nuclear issue", in an interview with the official IRNA news agency. "We are not addressing any other subject with the Americans," he added.