After talks, UN nuclear officials have left Iran

DUBAI (Reuters – UN nuclear watchdog representatives left Tehran Monday after meeting with Iran’s head of nuclear energy organisation. However, it is not clear if they have reached an agreement on uranium traces at undeclared sites.

According to it, the International Atomic Energy Agency delegation, headed by Massimo Aparo (deputy director general for safeguards), held negotiations with Iranian teams. They also met Mohammad Eslami from Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation.

ISNA stated that both sides discussed “future cooperation and programs as well as safeguarding questions”.

Last week, Eslami stated that he hoped that the visit would help to resolve any outstanding issues between the sides.

According to the IAEA, Iran failed to disclose traces of uranium at undeclared locations last year. This, according to the agency, affected its ability determine if Iran’s nuclear work is part of a peaceful energy program, as Tehran has maintained.

The issue has impeded progress in larger talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear accord with major powers. They want to stop Iran’s disputed program of uranium enrichment in return for lifting Washington sanctions after the 2018 exit.

(Reporting from Dubai newsroom; Writing and editing by Dominic Evans; Editing done by Andrew Heavens