EU group insists on keeping Iran dependent and vulnerable to foreign interests for critical civil nuclear needs
Iran-European Union, Politics, 8/5/2005

Britain, France and Germany submitted proposals to Iran today to assist with the country's civilian nuclear program "providing it accepted that it would not exercise its right to develop its own fuel cycle," IRNA reported.

IRNA reported that: The Foreign Office in London confirmed that a 34-page document of wide-ranging proposals, including on energy cooperation, was delivered by the ambassadors of the three countries in Tehran.


According to extracts of the text, Iran is being offered an "assured supply of fuel" over the coming years to develop its civilian nuclear program. The aim was to be able to "provide the confidence needed by making a binding commitment not to pursue fuel cycle activities there than the construction and operation of light water power and research reactors."


It was understood to make clear economic arguments, based on time and costs, why it would be better for Iran, like many other countries, to be supplied with the necessary fuel, rather than go down the route of developing its own cycle. The EU has constantly repeated that "Iran has the right to develop its own cycle under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty," but is asking Tehran not to exercise its right.
With regard to possible changes in the future, the whole package of proposals is to be reviewed every 10 years or so at ministerial level.

In addressing other concerns, the EU is offering to help Iran to set up regional security assurances with neighboring countries. This includes establishment of nuclear-free zones and cooperation with expanded dialogues. IRNA also learned that other aspects of the proposal include terrorism and combating drugs, while there is also a specific new economic incentive on energy cooperation.


"The EU/E3 will be prepared to make a policy declaration that regards Iran as a long-term source of oil and gas for the EU," the text is understood to offer.
The Foreign Office also confirmed that a special board meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is being called in Vienna on Tuesday to address Iran's recent declaration of its intentions to resume uranium processing at Isfahan UFC plant. The meeting is expected to go ahead to discuss future moves if Iran proceeds. The EU has already said that it would bring to an end the two years of negotiations with Iran to reach long-term arrangements on its nuclear program.

Previous Stories:
  Supreme Leader: Iran will not give in to bullies on nuclear issue   (8/3/2005)
  Iran proceeding with nuclear activities while it talks with Europeans   (8/2/2005)
  Iran restarts peaceful nuclear activities   (8/1/2005)

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