Iran and the United States have concluded negotiations for the fourth round of the Tehran nuclear program over the long-standing conflict.
The talks, mediated by Oman and thus held in its capital, Muscat, lasted for three hours.
As in the previous three rounds, negotiations were mediated by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragut and President Donald Trump’s President Steve Witkov.
A US official who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity said the argument was both a direct and indirect nature.
“We are encouraged by today’s outcome and look forward to the next meeting that will take place in the near future,” the official added.
Iran claimed that the talks occurred indirectly, perhaps over internal political pressure within the Islamic Republic.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi said that talks were “difficult” but he acknowledged that “we have a better understanding now.”
“We have moved away from the general discussion for a large part to more detailed issues. Naturally, this makes negotiations even more difficult,” Araguchi spoke to state media on Sunday.
The talks seek to limit Iran’s nuclear activity in return for the sanctions imposed by the US to lift them.
Enriched uranium
In March, UN nuclear observers reported that Iran had accelerated production of highly weapons-grade uranium. Iran is believed to have rich uranium to create nuclear weapons.
The US wants to prevent Tehran from developing its stockpiles, but Aragut has insisted that Iran will continue to enrich uranium.
“From our perspective, (uranium) enrichment must be an absolute must and there is no room to compromise on that,” Araguchi told state media.
“As we did with the agreement, limits on that dimension, scope, level and amount can be considered over a period of time to build confidence, but the principle of enrichment itself is not even negotiable,” he added.
The talks are scheduled for US President Donald Trump to visit the Middle East this week. American leaders have repeatedly threatened military action against Iran if they fail to reach a deal.
Araghchi confirmed that although a date and location must be set, another round of negotiations have been agreed.
