Iran to Continue Nuclear Programs Within Safeguard Obligations, Official States
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By lucasfernandez, World-Today-News.com – February 29,2024
Moscow – Mohammad Eslami,head of the Atomic Energy Organization of iran (AEOI),affirmed Iran’s commitment to operating its nuclear programs within international safeguard obligations during a visit to Russia. Eslami’s remarks, made upon arrival, highlighted the deepening nuclear cooperation between Iran and russia, and also included criticism of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Strengthening Ties with Russia
Eslami referenced recent discussions between Russian president Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in January, emphasizing that nuclear energy is currently the most meaningful area of collaboration between the two nations. He specifically pointed to the rapid progress in the construction of the second and third units of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, attributing this advancement to strong support from Iranian leadership.
According to Eslami, Russia is playing a crucial role in Iran’s aspiring plan to achieve 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power generation capacity. He indicated that Iran’s participation in the Atomexpo exhibition and associated events will culminate in the signing of new bilateral cooperation agreements between Tehran and Moscow.
Criticism of IAEA and Calls for Impartiality
Eslami voiced strong criticism of the IAEA,accusing the agency of remaining silent regarding recent attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities that fall under IAEA safeguards. He did not specify the actors responsible for these attacks, but the context suggests concerns regarding actions by the United States and Israel.
He reiterated Iran’s continued adherence to its safeguard obligations, but stressed that expanded cooperation with the IAEA is contingent upon the agency demonstrating impartiality and operating in accordance with iranian parliamentary law.
The statements from Eslami underscore Iran’s determination to pursue its nuclear energy programme while maintaining a commitment to international regulations, even as tensions remain high in the region and concerns persist regarding the security of its nuclear facilities.
Background: Iran’s nuclear program has been a subject of international scrutiny for decades. the Bushehr nuclear power plant,the first nuclear power plant in Iran,began operating in 2011 with assistance from Russia. Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, while other nations express concerns about potential weapons development.
Trends: The strengthening of ties between iran and Russia, particularly in the nuclear sector, reflects a broader geopolitical realignment. Increased cooperation challenges existing international frameworks and raises questions about regional stability.
Context: The IAEA’s role is to verify that nuclear material is not diverted for military purposes. Criticism of the IAEA often centers on perceptions of bias or insufficient responsiveness to security concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the status of the Bushehr nuclear power plant?
- Construction of the second and third units is reportedly progressing rapidly with Russian assistance.
- What is iran’s goal for nuclear power generation?
- Iran aims to generate 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power.
- What is Iran’s condition for increased cooperation with the IAEA?
- Iran requires the IAEA to act impartially and in accordance with iranian parliamentary law.
- What did Eslami say about recent attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities?
- He criticized the IAEA’s silence regarding the attacks.