Iran seeks simpler nuclear deal than JCPOA

Moscow (ANTARA) - Iran hopes that a new nuclear deal with the United States can be simpler than the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with two main elements comprising the lifting of sanctions and guarantees that Iran’s nuclear programme is peaceful in nature, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday (22/2).

“I believe a better deal than the JCPOA, or the 2015 nuclear agreement, is possible, and there are elements that could be far better compared to the previous accord,” he said.

“I think at this point there is no need for too many details. We can agree on the fundamentals and ensure that Iran’s nuclear programme is peaceful and will remain peaceful forever, and at the same time more sanctions will be lifted,” Araghchi added.

Tehran will also not relinquish its sovereign right to enrich uranium as part of its national nuclear programme, Araghchi said.

He affirmed that diplomacy is the only way forward to reach an agreement.

“I believe there is still a good opportunity to reach a diplomatic solution based on the principle of mutual benefit, and that solution is within our reach. So, there is no need for military escalation, and military build-up will not help and cannot pressure us,” Araghchi said.

Source: Sputnik/RIA Novosti-OANA