A new deal for Iran
16 June 2008
Iran has been presented with a new package of incentives to open up on its historic nuclear programs.
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Javier Solana talks to the Iranian press
(Image: IRNA) |
The country could enjoy cooperation in nuclear power, support for regional initiatives, the normalization of relations with the West and other industrial and economic benefits - as long as it allows a complete characterisation of its nuclear program.
The International Atomic Energy Agency has been investigating and inspecting Iranian nuclear facilities since 2002. It has been able to make sure that no declared nuclear materials have been misused, but very serious questions remain over some research projects from before the period of cooperation.
Together with a refusal to slow its uranium enrichment project, these unanswered questions have contributed to "a lack of confidence in Iran's nuclear program," according to a letter written by the foreign ministers of the China, France, Germany, Russia, the UK and USA as well as the European Union.
The ministers' letter, together with a list of potential areas of cooperation was presented to Iranian negotiators on 14 June by Javier Solana, the EU's secretary general and high representative. It notes Iran's right to the use of nuclear energy but warns, "with rights come responsibilities."
The ministers wrote that "it is possible to change the current state of affairs" with respect to their suspicions and four different UN Security Council resolutions on Iran. Chief among these is a demand that Iran stops uranium enrichment and used nuclear fuel reprocessing, which is held up in the letter as a pre-condition of formal talks on the proposed incentives.
Reports suggest that the international delegation was welcomed warmly to Iran and that despite a cold initial reaction, Iranian negotiators are examining the offers positively.
The package
China, France, Germany, Russia, the UK and USA and the EU are 'ready' to recognize Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy, and to treat the country in the same way as any other signatory to the Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty, "once the international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program is restored." That means Iran must be more forthcoming on historic research programs which have no connection to nuclear power, but appear to be vital to a nuclear weapons program.
In return, Iran would enjoy support for the construction of a 'state-of-the-art' light-water reactor with legally binding fuel supply guarantees. It would also have cooperation on management of used nuclear fuel and radioactive waste.
There could be steps towards normalization of trade and economic relations, including "full integration into international structures, including the World Trade Organisation" that would increase foreign investment in the country and improve Iranian access to external money markets.
There would be a boost in political dialogue, including support from the ministers for a conference on regional security issues. Security on Iran's border with Afganistan would also be boosted through cooperation. The implementation of these potential benefits would be monitored by joint monitoring groups.
The international community is hopeful for the deal, which builds on similar proposals made two years ago. If Iran agrees to cooperate to the fullest possible extent, this long-running crisis could enter a positive new phase, but if the offer fails Western powers are keen to pursue more serious sanctions from the Security Council.