Iran: Talks with 6 nations will test their respect

[September 30, 2009]  TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Wednesday that the upcoming nuclear talks with the U.S. and five other nations will be a "test" of their respect for Iran's rights.

Iran has come under intense pressure to fully disclose its nuclear activities ahead of Thursday's meeting in Geneva with the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Germany. The recent revelation that Tehran has been secretly constructing a new facility to produce nuclear fuel drew international condemnation and raised suspicion that Iran is trying to make a nuclear weapon.

"This meeting is a test to measure the extent of sincerity and commitment of some countries to law and justice," Ahmadinejad said after a Cabinet meeting Wednesday, according to official IRNA news agency.

Ahmadinejad singled out the U.S., Britain and France in particular for their harsh criticism of Iran.

"This meeting is an exceptional opportunity for the U.S. government and the two European countries to change their position in the world and reform their way of interacting with other governments and return to law, justice and respect," he said.

He described the meeting as a good opportunity for a "fresh start."

Iran has said it is willing to have a general discussion about nuclear technology at Thursday's meeting, but insists Iran will not give up the "right" to enrich uranium, which produces fuel that can be used for both nuclear energy or nuclear weapons.

The details emerging about the secret site near the holy city of Qom have only heightened Western suspicions Iran is trying to build a nuclear bomb, despite repeated denials.

President Barack Obama's administration is planning to push for new sanctions targeting Iran's energy, financial and telecommunications sectors if it does not comply with international demands, according to U.S. officials.

[Associated Press]

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