Iran and the US have begun a first round of talks in Muscat, Oman today, with Oman hosting. Omani state TV says negotiations are taking place today; other reporting frames the session as high stakes nuclear talks set to convene in Muscat.
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Iran, US to decide on ‘way forward’ after consultations in capitals: Araghchi
The latest round of Iran–US nuclear negotiations in Muscat was conducted in a constructive and positive environment, signaling a promising beginning to renewed diplomatic engagement between the two sides after a prolonged pause.
Speaking after the conclusion of the talks on Friday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqchi said the discussions lasted from 10 a.m. until nearly 6 p.m. and included several rounds of indirect meetings. He commended Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi for his active role in facilitating the process, both through hosting the delegations and relaying messages and positions between the two parties.
Araqchi noted that Iran used the opportunity to clearly present its viewpoints, concerns, and priorities, emphasizing the interests and rights of the Iranian people. He added that these positions were conveyed in a very positive atmosphere, while the views of the other side were also heard.Describing the talks as a “good start,” the foreign minister stressed that further progress will depend on consultations in the respective capitals and agreement on how to move forward.
He said there is near-consensus on the principle of continuing the negotiations, although details regarding the timing, format, and date of the next round will be determined through further consultations, to be coordinated by Oman.“In my view, a positive atmosphere prevailed, and in one sentence I can say: it was a good start,” Araqchi concluded.
President Donald Trump on Friday struck an optimistic note on US-Iran contacts, saying Washington had held “very good talks” during indirect discussions in Oman aimed at preventing a further rise in tensions.
"We likewise had very good talks on Iran, Iran looks like it wants to make a deal very badly," Trump said to reporters on board Air Force One en route to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida for the weekend.
"We're going to meet again early next week," he added.
Asked how long he was willing to wait for a deal on Iran, Trump said, "Well, you have to get in position. We have plenty of time."
