(Hamsayeh.Net) - In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel once again voiced her support for direct talks between Tehran and Washington over Iran's peaceful nuclear program.
A week before the next G8 summit to be held in Italy, she said it was time to begin negotiation on Iranian nuclear issue by giving her 'explicit support', news agencies reported. She also said the issue of Iran's nuclear program would be on the agenda of the next G8 summit.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Barack Obama reiterated last month his country's readiness to enter into 'serious dialogue' with Iran. Obama also asked Merkel to help facilitate a return to the negotiating table between the parties. 'Iran can not be brought to negotiating table in isolation, but needed help from America's partner like Germany to make it happen.' Obama said.
Western countries maintain that Iran's nuclear program posses grave danger to nuclear proliferation, whereas Iran and the international community have come to the conclusion that Iran's nuclear program is geared towards peaceful purposes.
Iran also maintains that any military nuclear program would be in clear violation of Islamic teachings and laws.
Source: Agencies
July 02/2009