Germany to join talks with Iran and European partners on nuclear program and regional issues

While Wagner did not specify the exact location or timing of the talks, he confirmed that discussions at the level of political officials would take place, focusing in part on the nuclear issue. Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, is already in Oslo, Norway, where he is reportedly initiating discussions with European officials, including those from the UK, France, and Germany.

The talks are expected to serve as a precursor to more comprehensive negotiations scheduled for Friday in Geneva. These discussions will address the nuclear issue, regional matters, and broader diplomatic relations between Iran and Europe.

The dialogue comes after the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), passed a resolution condemning Iran for insufficient cooperation on nuclear matters. The resolution was proposed by the UK, France, and Germany and backed by the United States. In response, Iran activated advanced centrifuges, a move seen as a retaliatory action following the resolution.

The European trio has consistently raised concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and its regional influence. Germany’s foreign ministry has reiterated these concerns, particularly Iran’s alleged role in the region and its use of proxies, a claim Tehran has steadfastly rejected. Iranian officials argue that regional groups opposed to Western-backed Israeli actions act independently and are not directed by Iran.

The situation has been complicated by the U.S.’s decision to unilaterally withdraw from the 2015 nuclear agreement, which was supported by the European countries. Despite their repeated efforts, the European powers have been unable to bring the U.S. back into the accord, leading to increasing tensions between Iran and the West.

As the discussions progress, Tehran has emphasised its willingness to resume negotiations based on mutual respect and genuine actions, including the removal of illegal U.S. sanctions. While the road ahead remains uncertain, the upcoming talks will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Iran’s nuclear program and its relations with Europe.