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The other day I posted a piece about the most recent set of negotiations (by the EU and others) with Iran . Lots of incentives were promised….if only Iran would stop its uranium enrichment program ( BN-Politics ). The Iranians have returned a reply. In the first official comments since Iran submitted its response to the EU, spokesman Gholamhossein Elham said that Iran “will not go back on its rights on the nuclear issue”. “Iran’s stand regarding its peaceful nuclear program has not changed. Iran insists on negotiations while respecting its rights and avoiding any loss of international rights,” BBC News ) I guess that means ‘no.’ The article suggests that there is, or at least may be, division of opinion among Iranian officials, but that President Ahmadinejad.has reaffirmed his commitment to the program. The rejection seems to have come from an official close to him. Along with the offer, Iran rejected a substantial package of sweeteners: The incentives package builds on a previous offer of 2006 and says that if Iran suspends uranium enrichment, then talks can start about a long-term agreement. On offer is recognition of Iran’s right to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and the treatment of Iran in "the same manner" as other states under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Iran would get help with developing nuclear power stations and be guaranteed fuel for them. It would also be offered trade concessions, including ...
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