WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama yesterday called on the “entire” government in Tehran to seize on nuclear talks with world powers to end Iran’s economic isolation.
Obama made a direct effort to build political support among Iranians in favour of the nuclear diplomacy led by the government of President Hassan Rowhani in an annual video message marking Nowruz, new year celebrations.
Obama noted that Iranians elected the comparatively moderate Rowhani last year to strengthen the economy, improve their lives and engage constructively with the world.
“I hope that the entire Iranian government hears that message too,” he said.
Blaming Iran’s economic pain on “the choices of Iranian leaders,” he said “you deserve better,” as he made a case to the Iranian people on the importance of reaching a final nuclear deal, which could loosen the grip of sanctions on Iran’s economy.
But, a day after the latest round of talks between P5+1 powers and Tehran wrapped up, Obama warned he was under “no illusions” and knew building on an interim deal, in which Iran froze aspects of its nuclear programme in return for limited relief from sanctions, would be difficult.
“There is a chance to reach an agreement if Iran takes meaningful and verifiable steps to assure the world that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only,” Obama said.
The US leader said a permanent nuclear deal would mean more trade with the rest of the world for Tehran, higher economic growth, jobs for young Iranians and the chance for students to travel.
“If Iran seizes this moment, this Nowruz could mark not just the beginning of a new year, but a new chapter in the history of Iran and it’s role in the world,” he said.
Secretary of State John Kerry said in his own statement that although America and Iran had suffered “harsh winters” in the past, a new opportunity was at hand.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Wednesday he saw signs a long-term nuclear deal could be reached after the latest talks in Vienna.
The next meeting will come in April and will begin drafting the text of an agreement.
Under the interim deal struck in November, the two sides are aiming for a long-term deal by July 20.
There are four key issues in any agreement — the status of Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor — which Israel fears could offer an alternative route to a bomb -- its enrichment of uranium, civil nuclear cooperation and the lifting of Western sanctions.
AFP
