Tehran Not Opposed to ‘Useful’ Nuclear Talks

President Ebrahim Raeisi in a phone conversation with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, highlighted Iran’s intention to take part in “useful” nuclear talks.
“We’re not against useful negotiations but the goal and the result of the talks should be the removal of sanctions against Iran,” Raeisi was quoted as saying by his website on Sunday. 
“Negotiations for the sake of negotiations are futile,” the top official added.
Iran started rolling back on its nuclear commitments in response to the United States’ unilateral exit from the international accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, in 2018.
Talks to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement initiated in April in the Austrian capital Vienna between Iran and other signatories but came to a halt in June amid the country’s presidential election and conservative Raeisi’s rise to power.
European parties to the deal, including France, have urged Iran to return rapidly to nuclear negotiations. 
During the conversation between the two presidents, Macron expressed hope that talks on the nuclear deal could resume as early as possible. 
Iran maintains that it will participate in talks with “tangible results” that can secure its national interests. 
Raeisi and Macron also agreed to strengthen bilateral ties, especially to tackle ongoing regional issues in Afghanistan and Lebanon. 

Region 

Raeisi pointed to the US and NATO’s failed attempt at military intervention in neighboring Afghanistan and called for international cooperation to set up an inclusive Afghani administration. 
“Iran is ready to work toward establishing peace and security in Afghanistan to prevent fratricide,” the top official said.  
Macron also addressed the latest developments in Kabul and called for an inclusive Afghan government that is committed to human rights and international law.
The US abrupt exit from Afghanistan after a 20-year military campaign had led to turmoil in the neighboring nation as the Taliban quickly took over the country. 
The pair also discussed the economic collapse and political conflicts in Lebanon as Raeisi reaffirmed his support for a government that could boost stability in the chaotic region. 
“We will not deny humanitarian aid to the Lebanese people and we’re prepared to cooperate with France for the development of Lebanon,” Raeisi said.
Noting France’s potential role in removing sanctions against Beirut, the official said, “Efforts and help from Iran, France and the Hezbollah to form a strong government can benefit the country.”
Lebanon is being run by the caretaker government of Prime Minister Hassan Diab.